Brenden Jamel Reynolds was sentenced Thursday for the death of 20-year-old Jayvon Andrew Malone, Dakota County Attorney Kathy Keena announced.
Judge Stacey Sorenson Green handed down a 129-month prison sentence to Reynolds, age 25, for one count of manslaughter in the first-degree (intentionally cause death) (heat of passion). Mr. Reynolds will receive credit for 415 days already served and was ordered to pay $7,580 in restitution. The sentence was an upward durational departure from the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines.
According to the criminal complaint, a report of shots fired on June 9, 2021, around 9 p.m., sent West St. Paul police to Thompson County Park. Officers found Malone lying in the grass where two people were applying pressure to gunshot wounds. Medics arrived and he was taken to a local hospital where he later died.
Surveillance video showed Reynolds arrive on a motorcycle and approach Malone. Reynolds punched Malone in the face, sending him to the ground and gunshots were then fired.
Reynolds was initially charged with murder in the second-degree (with intent, not premeditated). On Feb. 6, 2024, Reynolds entered a guilty plea to first-degree manslaughter. As a part of the plea agreement, he admitted to the existence of aggravating factors — the crime was committed at a public park during operating hours and in the presence of children. The plea agreement further provided the state could argue for an upward departure under the sentencing guidelines for a sentence in the range of 103 to 172 months, the state sought 172 months.
“This is another example of a senseless death resulting from gun violence. No one should have to fear for their life at a park,” said County Attorney Kathy Keena. “I hope today’s decision will bring some measure of justice to Jayvon’s family, friends and loved ones.”
“I’m grateful to the prosecution team and the West St. Paul Police Department who worked tirelessly on this case,” added Keena.