A federal jury has found Leion Butler, also known as Leniyah Butler, guilty of voluntary manslaughter in the shooting death of a man in the Presidio, San Francisco. The trial, presided over by U.S. District Judge Susan Illston, concluded after two weeks of testimonies and evidence presentation.
The incident occurred on November 12, 2023, at Crissy Field East Beach area. Court documents revealed that Butler, a sex worker, shot the victim in the eye following a dispute over a refund request after a performed sex act. Following the shooting, Butler stole the victim's car, attempted to erase forensic evidence, and discarded the murder weapon in Hunters Point.
Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins addressed the verdict, stating, “We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family, whose son and brother was taken from them prematurely, and hope today’s verdict brings some measure of justice.” He further commended the FBI's efforts in the case.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani emphasized the importance of the conviction, saying, “This conviction demonstrates the FBI’s unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims of violent crime. Through tireless investigative work and collaboration with our law enforcement partners, we ensured that the defendant was held accountable for this senseless act. The FBI will continue to pursue those who commit violent offenses and threaten the safety of our communities.”
The jury did not convict Butler of second-degree murder. Currently in custody, Butler will face sentencing on June 27, 2025. The charge of voluntary manslaughter under 18 U.S.C. § 1112 carries a potential maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and possible restitution. The court will determine the sentence in accordance with the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutory laws.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelsey Davidson and George Hageman, aided by Helen Yee, Jessie Chelsea, Marina Ponomarchuk, and Janice Pagsanjan. The FBI led a months-long investigation resulting in the prosecution.