Bakersfield Man Sentenced in 2020 Fatal Shooting
David Bobo Thomas received a 32-year prison sentence for the voluntary manslaughter of Tazmein Leoshus English.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Violence
David Bobo Thomas was sentenced to 32 years in prison for the 2020 voluntary manslaughter of 21-year-old Tazmein Leoshus English. The defendant, a member of the Westside Crips, entered a no contest plea after a murder charge was dismissed.
Why it matters
Prosecutors argued that the fatal shooting at the Residence Hotel Courtyard was carried out to benefit the activities of the Westside Crips gang. The sentencing concludes a legal process that began shortly after the incident in 2020.
David Bobo Thomas received a 32-year sentence following his no contest plea to voluntary manslaughter. This resolution occurred after the dismissal of an initial murder charge filed against the defendant.
The players
David Bobo Thomas
He is a convicted felon and member of the Westside Crips who was sentenced for voluntary manslaughter.
Tazmein Leoshus English
He was a 21-year-old victim who died after being shot at the Residence Hotel Courtyard.
The details
Tazmein Leoshus English was found shot at the Residence Hotel Courtyard near East Truxtun Avenue and later pronounced dead at Kern Medical. During the sentencing hearing, the court heard emotional impact statements from the family of the deceased.
Timeline
September 23, 2020: Tazmein Leoshus English was found shot.
September 30, 2020: David Bobo Thomas was arrested.
September 2026: David Bobo Thomas pleaded no contest.
October 14, 2026: David Bobo Thomas was sentenced in court.
Legal Context
This case reflects the local justice system's ongoing prosecution of violent crimes documented in the 2020 Bakersfield crime statistics. It highlights the continued efforts by authorities to address gang-related violence through long-term prison sentences.
The conclusion of this case brings closure to a violent incident that occurred in a public hotel space near East Truxtun Avenue. Residents and local businesses may see this sentencing as a step toward addressing gang-related activity in the area.
The takeaway
The resolution of this case marks the end of a six-year legal process following the death of a young resident. It serves as a reminder of the lasting impact that gang-related violence has on both families and the broader Bakersfield community.
Further reading
For additional context on local legal proceedings, visit the Bakersfield Violence page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KGET 17.
