BAKERSFIELD, Calf. — Keith Hamilton, 36, was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for his role in the March 18, 2023, shooting that resulted in the death of Christopher Pudwill, 37, in Bakersfield.
Hamilton provided the gun used in the shooting to co-defendant Ira Kindle, who fired eight rounds at Pudwill near 34th and Q streets. Despite Hamilton’s lack of a criminal history and his remorse, prosecutor Samantha Allen emphasized the gravity of his actions, noting that Hamilton knowingly handed over the weapon, leading to Pudwill’s death.
Hamilton was convicted of second-degree murder and an accessory charge, with the two sentences running concurrently. Kindle, 46, was sentenced last month to 50 years to life, plus five years.
The incident was captured on surveillance video, showing the two men walking away after the shooting. Hamilton later attempted to dispose of the gun, which was recovered by police.