Hugh A. Bentley (1909–1984) is known for launching a cleanup drive to get rid of crime and corruption in Phenix City, Alabama, in the early 1950s.
[4] On Election Day in May 1952, while monitoring the polling places Bentley, his son Hughbo, and their fellow activist Hugh Britton were beaten bloody by thugs.
[4][7] In 1954, Albert Patterson, supported by Bentley and the RBA, successfully ran for the Democratic nomination for state Attorney General.
[4] Over a six-month period the National Guard cleaned up the town, destroying gambling operations and brothels and enforcing a ban on alcohol sales.
[3][10] After the cleanup of Phenix City, Bentley continued to support community improvement, as well as serving as a Sunday School teacher.