Leniyah Butler Convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter in San Francisco Shooting

Leniyah Butler, a 21-year-old transgender sex worker, was convicted of voluntary manslaughter for the shooting death of 32-year-old Hamza Walupupu in San Francisco. The incident occurred in November 2023 after Walupupu requested a refund upon discovering Butler's transgender identity following a sex act. A physical altercation ensued, during which Butler shot Walupupu in the eye. After the shooting, she attempted to dispose of evidence, including the murder weapon, and stole Walupupu's car. Butler was acquitted of second-degree murder but will face sentencing on June 27, where she could receive up to 15 years in prison. The case has raised discussions about the circumstances surrounding violence in the sex work community and issues of consent and identity.