Andrew Lester Sentencing Range Revealed in Yarl Case

Andrew Lester, an 86-year-old Kansas City man, has pleaded guilty to second-degree assault in a plea deal for the 2023 shooting of Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager who mistakenly rang his doorbell. Lester, who had initially faced charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action, will be sentenced to one to seven years in prison. The case drew national attention, sparking debates on racial bias and stand-your-ground laws. Yarl's family expressed frustration with the plea deal, arguing that it does not fully address the severity of the actions or the racial components involved. The shooting, which resulted in Yarl's injury but not death, highlighted systemic issues and racial bias in the justice system. Lester's sentencing is scheduled for March 7, and the family hopes for a decision that reflects the seriousness of the crime.