Poker Player Murdered

Two men accused of shooting a man to death and then stealing a Dodge Ram were convicted on Sep 30th. The crime took place in Bakersfield, CA and both men were charged with an assortment of charges.

In 2006, the two men interrupted a poker game being held in a garage on Emery Avenue, Bakersfield. At around midnight, they held Jesse Harkleroad at gunpoint along with three other men. They demanded the keys to the pickup in the driveway. The gunman, John Thomas Jr. and Johnte Allen, then opened fire killing Harkleroad and wounding the other three. They then drove off in the pickup. The other three men shot were Zachary Schmidt, Randall Ayers, and Ty Scherer. All four victims were 21 years old. Harkleroad died on the scene while Schmidt was shot in the chest and was in critical condition. Ayers was shot in the back and only suffered minor injuries. Scherer was treated for a gunshot to the arm and release.

Police apprehended the two gunmen later the next morning after finding the truck at Planz Park, which was near the murder.

During the trial both men were seen smiling, but now they may be spending the rest of their lives in jail. The Judge Michael Bush told the two accused “I don’t think its one bit funny.” after the two started giggling when the verdict was read.

Jesse Harkleroad was a new father and former football player. He was a graduate of South High. Family and friends of Harkleroad said the conviction was bittersweet, however they were glad to see justice served to the two convicted. Both were found guilty on nine felony counts, including first degree murder, attempted murder, and robbery. On November 12th, they will face their sentencing where they will be looking at a 25 years to life sentence.