The Los Angeles Police Department has announced the arrest of two men whom they say are linked to the shooting of a USC sprinter on Halloween. Police say they arrested Travon Reed of Los Angeles, and Horasio Kimbrough, of Inglewood, and have charged them each with one count of attempted murder. The charge also carries enhancements for the use of a firearm and for gang-related activities. Reed’s bail was set at $2 million and Kimbrough is being held without bail. Each man faces 50 years to life in prison if convicted of all charges.

Police say that Bryshon Nellum was shot in both legs as he approached his car. Nellum, who had been at a party, was taken to an area hospital and is recovering from his injuries. Nellum was ranked number one nationally in the men’s 200-meter and 400-meter sprints, and won the California high school state titles in those events in two consecutive years. It is not yet clear whether he will be able to continue running.

Murder and attempted murder carry stiff penalties under California law. Depending upon the circumstances of the crime, you could be sentenced to the death penalty, or you may spend the rest of your life in prison. If you have a previous criminal history, your sentence could include three strikes penalties as well.

For these extremely serious charges, you need the assistance of a highly skilled criminal defense attorney like Robert Michael Helfend. Mr. Helfend has amassed nearly 25 years of criminal defense experience in Southern California. He takes cases in Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County and Ventura County. His case history provides excellent examples of the kind of work Mr. Helfend does for his clients.

If you’ve been arrested for a criminal offense, major or minor, you need an experienced, aggressive criminal defense attorney like Robert Helfend.

Photo Credit: Vullioud Pierre-André