A 23-year-old man was convicted this month of first-degree murder for the killing of a 17-year-old during a violent crime spree that included carjackings, robberies, and disturbing acts such as urinating on the grave of one of the victim’s friends for an Instagram video. The case involved Jacobi Gaines, who was found guilty of a series of offenses that spanned several weeks in late 2019 and early 2020, ultimately culminating in the death of Hasan Humphries.
Gaines, who was 18 at the time of the crime spree, engaged in a pattern of escalating criminal behavior, which included carjackings, thefts, and assaults. His actions were reportedly driven by gang rivalries, with the violence intensifying as he posted threatening messages and violent content on social media. He even filmed a video in which he urinated on the grave of one of Humphries’ deceased friends, which he shared on Instagram. The motive behind this act is believed to be related to a feud between Gaines and people connected to the victim, though the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear.
The crime spree began around December 2, 2019, and continued for several weeks, with Gaines committing multiple offenses across the Oakland area. The violence reached its peak on January 13, 2020, when Gaines shot and killed Hasan Humphries, who was unarmed at the time. The young victim was struck by two gunshots, and Gaines was able to flee the scene in a stolen Audi A4 Quattro, which had a distinctive black grille. Investigators later confirmed that Gaines’ cell phone data placed him at the scene of the murder at the time it occurred.
Prosecutors presented several key pieces of evidence during the trial, including surveillance footage, cellphone records, and witness testimony, which helped to establish Gaines’ involvement in the murder. One particularly disturbing piece of evidence was the video Gaines posted on social media, in which he urinated on the grave of Humphries’ friend. This act of disrespect and aggression was seen as part of the broader pattern of violent behavior that led to the murder.
In addition to the first-degree murder charge, Gaines was convicted of multiple other offenses, including three counts of gun possession, carjacking, robbery, vehicle theft, and assault with a deadly weapon. His criminal activities spanned a six-week period, during which he terrorized the community and left a trail of victims in his wake. The authorities were able to track his movements and connect him to the various crimes through forensic evidence, including his stolen vehicle and cellphone data.
The conviction has been seen as a significant victory for law enforcement and the community, as it removes a dangerous individual from society. Chief Assistant District Attorney Royl Roberts emphasized the importance of the verdict, stating that it helps to ensure that a violent criminal will no longer be able to harm others. The case also serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of gang violence and the far-reaching consequences of social media, where provocative and violent behavior can escalate into real-world harm.
Gaines is set to be sentenced on February 20, 2025, and he faces a maximum sentence of life in state prison. The outcome of this case highlights the serious consequences of engaging in a life of crime, particularly when it involves the senseless loss of life. The community, while grieving the loss of a young life, can take some solace in the fact that justice has been served, and the perpetrator of these heinous acts will face the full consequences of his actions.
