Former State Rep. Perry Hooper Jr. (R-Montgomery) issued a public apology Tuesday over his role in an alleged sexual abuse incident which took place Aug. 16 at a Montgomery restaurant.

In a statement released by Montgomery attorney Joe Espy, Hooper said he took “full responsibility” for his “unacceptable” behavior.

“I would like to express my sincerest apologies to (the individual). On August 16, 2022, (the individual) was assisting my friend and me, as a hostess where we were dining,” said Hooper. “I was wrong and I take full responsibility for my actions. (The individual) is an exemplary person and my behavior was unacceptable. I hope she will accept this apology for my regrettable conduct.”

Hooper, 68, was indicted last month by a grand jury for the incident that occurred on the 100 block of Commerce Street in downtown Montgomery.

Shortly after Hooper’s indictment was handed down, the woman at the center of the case asked the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office to drop the charge.

She stated last week that the situation had “been resolved and going through the turmoil of a trial would provide no more justice than getting a sincere public apology from Mr. Hooper.”

Dylan Smith is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL