A Kern County man was sentenced to seven years in prison for punching and killing a 61-year-old man during a dog-related dispute in 2022.
Jeffrey Sellers, 18 at the time of the incident, received his sentence on September 23, 2025, after being convicted on August 13 of involuntary manslaughter, assault likely to cause great bodily injury, and battery causing serious bodily injury. His victim, Michael Davis, died from blunt force head trauma in June 2023.
According to the Kern County District Attorney’s Office, Sellers and his girlfriend were walking her unleashed pit bull on Greenacres Drive on September 20, 2022, when the dog ran into Davis’ yard. An argument ensued. After the dog was restrained, Sellers reportedly cursed at Davis. When Davis turned around, Sellers punched him in the face, causing him to fall and hit his head on the concrete.
A neighbor witnessed the incident and helped Davis, who was bleeding and semi-conscious. He underwent emergency brain surgery but remained in a coma until his death.
During the trial, Sellers claimed Davis was holding a baseball bat, and the defense suggested Davis fainted from stress. The jury rejected these claims, siding with prosecution evidence.
Sellers was credited 88 days in custody, including 77 for good behavior, and will serve his sentence at Wasco State Prison.
Leave a Reply