SAN DIEGO (AP) — Bud Shelton, 34, was sentenced to 25 years and four months on Monday for setting fire to a teenager’s body in the Morena/Linda Vista neighborhood in August 2022. The victim, 15-year-old Janaeshia Dubose, died from a fentanyl overdose, after which Shelton burned her body. The prosecution claimed that Shelton had engaged in sexual acts with the victim, but the family denied those allegations.
The victim’s family expressed their pain and disappointment in court, saying they don’t feel like justice has been served. They described the impact of losing their loved one and emphasized the unfairness of Shelton receiving a 25-year and four-month sentence. The family’s sentiments portrayed the deep loss they have experienced due to the actions of the defendant.
A brush fire in the area led to the discovery of the victim’s burning body near the Morena/Linda Vista trolley station. The tragic incident sparked deep emotional distress for the victim’s family, as they shared their sorrow about not being able to see their daughter again and the experiences they will never have with her.
The judge highlighted Shelton’s criminal history, which included theft, drugs, and violence, but no prior sexual crimes. Despite the severity of this case, Shelton was not charged with homicide and was not required to register as a sex offender. This decision has left the victim’s family feeling that justice was not fully served.
In conclusion, the sentencing of the defendant has brought about mixed feelings for the victim’s family. They expressed disappointment in the duration of the sentence and the perceived lack of proper justice for their beloved daughter. The anguish of losing a young life to such tragic circumstances resonates deeply within the family as they continue to navigate through this heartbreaking ordeal.