Lexington, Kentucky, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Michael Lemond has received a 15-year prison sentence after pleading guilty for a drive-by shooting in Lexington, Kentucky, that left 5-year-old Malakai Roberts permanently blind. The court emphasized the tragedy of the incident, which drastically affected the victim and raised discussions on gun violence in the community.
Lexington, Kentucky: Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Drive-By Shooting That Left 5-Year-Old Blind
Michael Lemond has been sentenced to 15 years in prison following his guilty pleas related to a December 2020 drive-by shooting that left a 5-year-old boy permanently blind. The incident occurred in Lexington, Kentucky, and resulted in serious injuries to Malakai Roberts, who was asleep at home when he was struck in the head by a bullet.
Lemond, who is now 23, pleaded guilty on August 15 to two counts of second-degree assault and two amended counts of second-degree wanton endangerment. The court handed down consecutive sentences totaling 15 years, including 10 years for the first assault count and 5 years for the second assault count, along with a combined 12 months for the remaining counts.
During the sentencing hearing, the judge, Lucy VanMeter, characterized the shooting as “terribly tragic” and noted the serious implications of Lemond’s violent actions. The court considered Lemond’s efforts at self-improvement while in custody, which included participation in Christian-based substance abuse counseling. Lemond expressed remorse for his conduct and addressed his regrets directly to the victims in the courtroom.
Following the shooting, the young victim, Malakai Roberts, has undergone significant medical treatment. He has received a prosthetic eye and has been recognized at various events aimed at raising awareness about gun violence and supporting victims. Notably, Malakai was honored during a halftime ceremony at the Vrbo Citrus Bowl in January 2022. In 2025, he participated in the “Many Miles for Malakai” event organized by the North Lexington YMCA, further highlighting the impact of gun violence on the community.
The incident, which shocked the local community, is a stark reminder of the consequences of gun violence. The court’s decision aims to serve justice for the victim while emphasizing the seriousness of Lemond’s actions. Lemond was initially incarcerated at the age of 18 and will continue to serve his sentence with custody credits still to be calculated. He retains the right to appeal administratively regarding his sentencing.
Background of the Incident
The drive-by shooting incident took place in December 2020 when Lemond fired multiple rounds at a home in Lexington. Malakai Roberts, who was only five years old at the time, was hit in the head by one of the bullets while he was sleeping. The injury resulted in his permanent blindness, transforming the lives of both the young victim and his family.
Following the shooting, local law enforcement and community members rallied for justice, leading to Lemond’s arrest and the subsequent legal proceedings. The shooting raised numerous discussions regarding the importance of gun safety and the ongoing issue of violence in communities.
Summary of Sentencing Terms
- Count 1: 10 years for first-degree assault
- Count 2: 5 years for second-degree assault
- Counts 3 & 4: Combined 12 months for second-degree wanton endangerment
- Total Sentence: 15 years (consecutive terms)
Conclusion
The case has drawn significant attention to gun violence and its repercussions, particularly affecting the most vulnerable members of society. With Lemond’s sentence, the legal system aims to address the incident’s severity and remind the community of the increasing need for preventative measures against gun violence.
FAQ Section
What led Michael Lemond to his conviction?
Michael Lemond was convicted for his role in a drive-by shooting that injured a young boy in December 2020. He pleaded guilty to multiple counts of assault and wanton endangerment.
How long is Lemond’s sentence?
Lemond has been sentenced to a total of 15 years in prison, with terms running consecutively for his charges.
What happened to Malakai Roberts after the shooting?
Malakai Roberts suffered a severe injury that resulted in permanent blindness. He has received a prosthetic eye and has been involved in community events focused on gun violence awareness.
What rehabilitation efforts did Lemond undertake while in custody?
During his time in custody, Lemond participated in Christian-based substance abuse counseling and worked on self-improvement initiatives.
Is Michael Lemond able to appeal his sentence?
Yes, Michael Lemond retains the right to appeal his sentence administratively.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Michael Lemond |
| Victim | Malakai Roberts (5 years old) |
| Incident Date | December 2020 |
| Charges | Two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of second-degree wanton endangerment |
| Sentence | 15 years in prison |
| Injury Result | Permanent blindness |
| Community Response | Awareness events, recognition, and support for victims of gun violence |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington Sees Decline in Youth Gun Violence
Additional Resources
- WTVQ: Man Sentenced to 15 Years in 2020 Lexington Drive-By Shooting
- LEX 18: Multiple People Injured in Drive-By Shooting in Nicholasville
- Fox 56 News: Drive-By Shooting Injures 4, Including 2 Kids
- KGW: Kelso Police Investigate Shooting
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
