Man Convicted in Fatal Shooting
Introduction to the Case
An Antelope Valley man has been convicted of fatally shooting a marijuana dealer during a planned robbery in Inglewood four years ago.
Leandrew Raglin, 22, of Lancaster was found guilty Friday in downtown Los Angeles of four federal counts, including conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm in a crime of violence resulting in death, constituting murder, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The Planned Robbery
Evidence presented at an eight-day trial showed Raglin and co-defendants Mateo Paul, 23, of Long Beach and Iysis Elanore Smith, 22, of Inglewood agreed to rob the dealer at gunpoint. The trio planned a ruse to lure the dealer via social media to a meeting, where they intended to ambush him and steal his stash, the jury heard.
The Fatal Shooting
On March 15, 2021, Smith approached the vehicle occupied by the victim. Federal prosecutors said that while Smith distracted the dealer, Paul and Raglin parked behind the victim’s vehicle. Raglin then exited the vehicle Paul was driving, approached the passenger side of the victim’s car and opened fire, repeatedly wounding the person in the passenger seat, federal prosecutors said.
Raglin then walked around to the other side of the vehicle and opened fire, fatally wounding the dealer in the driver’s seat, evidence showed. The 26-year-old man who died was identified in court papers only as “A.B.”
Sentencing and Co-Defendants
U.S. District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha scheduled a March 13 sentencing hearing, at which time Raglin will face between 10 years and life imprisonment, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Paul pleaded guilty in February to interference with commerce by robbery and brandishing and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. He is scheduled to be sentenced in L.A. federal court on Sept. 26.
Smith pleaded guilty to felony robbery charges. Both Paul and Smith face potential life sentences, prosecutors said.
Conclusion
The conviction of Leandrew Raglin serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of violent crimes. The planned robbery and fatal shooting of the marijuana dealer have resulted in significant prison time for the perpetrators. As the case comes to a close, it is essential to acknowledge the impact of such crimes on the community and the importance of holding those responsible accountable.
FAQs
What was Leandrew Raglin convicted of?
Leandrew Raglin was convicted of four federal counts, including conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm in a crime of violence resulting in death, constituting murder.
What was the planned robbery about?
The planned robbery involved Raglin and his co-defendants luring a marijuana dealer to a meeting via social media, where they intended to ambush him and steal his stash.
What is the potential sentence for Raglin?
Raglin faces between 10 years and life imprisonment.
What is the status of the co-defendants?
Paul pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and brandishing and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and Smith pleaded guilty to felony robbery charges. Both face potential life sentences.
Originally Published: September 9, 2025 at 9:31 PM PDT
