Two men have been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of 51-year-old Reginald Foreman, a South Los Angeles community activist who worked to prevent gang violence and improve neighborhood safety.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced the charges Friday, identifying the defendants as Kody Townsend, 19, and Jeremiah James Abdelhameed, 25. Prosecutors allege that Foreman’s killing was connected to gang activity.
Kody Townsend Faces Murder and Conspiracy Charges
Prosecutors charged Townsend with murder, conspiracy to commit a crime, and possession of a firearm by a felon. He is also accused of killing Foreman by means of lying in wait.
According to the District Attorney’s Office, prosecutors allege that Townsend intentionally killed Foreman while participating in a criminal street gang and that the shooting was carried out to further the gang’s activities.
Abdelhameed faces one felony count of accessory after the fact for his alleged involvement following the killing.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman condemned the violence and highlighted Foreman’s work in the community.
” Gang violence doesn’t just claim lives; it robs entire communities of their sense of security and safety,” Hochman said in a statement.
He noted that Foreman worked for 2nd Call, a restorative justice and gang prevention organization, and was performing his community duties when he was allegedly shot and killed.
Hochman said the DA’s Gang Homicide Division would work to hold those responsible accountable.
What Happened to Reginald Foreman?
The shooting happened on August 6 in South Los Angeles.
According to authorities, Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to reports of gunfire near Crenshaw Boulevard and 59th Place at approximately 3:15 p.m.
Officers found Foreman suffering from a gunshot wound. He died at the scene.
Authorities described Foreman as a former rival gang member associated with the Rollin’ 111s Crips who later became involved in community work and efforts to prevent gang violence.
His death left a significant loss for the South Los Angeles community, where he had worked to promote safer neighborhoods and support local residents.
Kody Townsend Is the Son of Anti-Gang Activist Clifford “Skipp” Townsend
The case has drawn additional attention because Kody Townsend is the son of Clifford “Skipp” Townsend, the executive director of 2nd Call and a well-known anti-gang activist.
Kody Townsend was arrested Wednesday on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder, according to the original report. The arrest reportedly sent shock waves through the local community.
On Thursday, the District Attorney’s Office announced that it had declined to file charges against Skipp Townsend, citing insufficient evidence.
Foreman also worked with 2nd Call, making his death particularly painful for the organization.
Following his killing, the nonprofit shared tributes honoring his contributions to South Los Angeles.
In one social media tribute, 2nd Call highlighted Foreman’s work to improve neighborhood conditions, restore community pride, and create safer public spaces.
The organization also recognized his work through its partnership with Destination Crenshaw, where he and his team helped maintain and care for the Crenshaw corridor.
The tribute emphasized that his influence would extend beyond his daily responsibilities and continue to be felt throughout the community.
Read the 2nd Call tribute to Reginald Foreman on Instagram.
What’s Next in the Case?
Kody Townsend is expected to be arraigned at a later date. If convicted as charged, he could face life in prison.
Abdelhameed faces a potential sentence of up to seven years in prison if convicted.
The charges remain allegations, and both defendants are entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty in court.
The investigation and legal proceedings are expected to determine the circumstances surrounding Foreman’s death and the alleged roles of the two defendants.
