Three men have been sentenced to decades in prison for the 2021 killing of a retired California police officer who was working security for a news crew when he was shot during a robbery attempt.
Sentences Handed Down in Fatal Shooting
Authorities say Laron Gilbert, identified as the gunman, was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison after pleading no contest to first-degree murder.
The two other defendants, Shadihia Mitchell and Hershel Hale, each received 25-year sentences after pleading no contest to robbery charges.
The trio was convicted earlier this year in connection with the shooting.
Officer Killed While Protecting News Crew
The victim, 56-year-old Kevin Nishita, was a retired Oakland police officer who was working security for a television news crew in Oakland.
Investigators say the suspects attempted to steal camera equipment from the crew when Gilbert shot Nishita in the abdomen during the robbery.
The incident occurred in November 2021, just one day before Thanksgiving.
Nishita was taken to the hospital, where he died three days later from his injuries.
Family Reflects on Loss
At the sentencing hearing, Nishita’s wife shared the emotional impact of the loss, recalling that her husband had only planned to work a few hours on his day off.
She expressed regret over encouraging him to take the job, saying she wished she could go back and tell him to stay home.
Nishita is survived by his wife, two children, and three grandchildren.
Career of Service
Over the course of his career, Nishita served with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Oakland Police Department, the Oakland Housing Authority, the Hayward Police Department, the San Jose Police Department, and the Colma Police Department.
Family members described him as a dedicated officer and a caring father and grandfather.
Investigation and Convictions
Police said surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and witness statements helped identify the three suspects involved in the attempted robbery.
The case ultimately led to murder and robbery charges, resulting in lengthy prison sentences for all three men.
Lasting Impact
Following his death, Nishita’s family spoke about the difficulty of moving forward without him, noting that he had been planning a family vacation at the time of the incident.
The sentencing brings legal closure to the case, though loved ones say the emotional impact of the loss will continue.
