Rising Bakersfield rapper, RunitUp Jaybo, was recently sentenced 35 years to life in prison

Rising Bakersfield rapper, Runitupjaybo, was recently sentenced 35 years to life in prison.

Through his identity, Bakersfield Police officers identified him as the rapper mentioned before. According to court docs, About three weeks later, on Nov. 19, 2019, another victim was walking with his family’s home when he spotted Laughlin in the front yard of a home, with several documented Warlord Piru gang members. The victim tried to avoid the group by turning down a side street and walking through an alley, but Laughlin chased and confronted the victim in the alley. Laughlin said the victim “disrespected the set.”

Laughlin then fired six rounds and struck the victim in the arm and hip. He then ran from the area. BPD officers responded to the area and Laughlin was arrested as he tried to drive away.

A local rapper, Jayden Christopher “Jaybo” Laughlin was convicted Tuesday after a two-month trial for attempted premeditated murder in a series of gang-related shootings from Oct. 2019-June 2022, announced Kern County District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer.

Laughlin faced more than 20 serious or violent felonies including attempted premeditated murder.

The first incident happened on Oct. 19, 2019, when eight juveniles were skateboarding at Riverwalk Park. Prosecutors said Laughlin and his gang member associated approached the juveniles in the amphitheater area, pulled out a firearm and demanded the juveniles’ phones, money, and wallets. Laughlin’s associates stood guard and blocked the juveniles from leaving. Then, Laughlin and his two associates ran from the area. He was recognized as “Jaybo,” a local rap artist.

On June 20, three people were arrested as part of the investigation: Brian Norman for homicide, Raemaonie Gaines for accessory to murder, and Charles Prince for felon in possession of a firearm.

Police say Norman and Gaines are believed to be connected to the May 1 killing of Ronald Celestine in the area of March Lane and Holiday Drive.

“This investigation was initiated to reduce the levels of violence occurring in Stockton,” said Stockton Chief of Police Eric Jones in a statement. “Now since we have members from this gang in custody, we are hopeful people will come forward with information so we can solve more cases involving this group.”