A man who shot Lady Gaga’s dog walker and stole her two French bulldogs has been sentenced to 21 years in prison.
James Howard Jackson, one of three men and two accomplices involved in a violent robbery last year, has pleaded not guilty to one count of attempted murder, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office said.
Dog walker Ryan Fischer says he has a “very close to death”.
Lady Gaga is offering a $500,000 reward — “no questions asked” — for the animals’ safe return.
The dogs, Koji and Gustav, were returned days later by Jennifer McBride, also charged.
Ryan Fischer was heard yelling “Help me” on the doorbell camera. Instagram Image: Valley of the Dogs
Detectives don’t believe the thieves knew who the dogs belonged to.
The motivation is their value, which can run into the thousands of dollars.
Prosecutors previously said Jackson and others drove around Hollywood, West Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley on Feb. Together.
After Jackson shot Mr Fischer, a nearby doorbell camera recorded the dog walker screaming: “Oh my God! I’ve been shot!” and “Help me! My chest is bleeding!”
James Howard Jackson Sentenced to 21 Years in Prison
Jackson also admitted causing grievous bodily harm and prior criminal conduct, the prosecutor’s office said.
“The plea deal holds Mr. Jackson accountable for committing a callous act of violence and justice for our victims,” the office said in a statement.
Another accomplice, Harold White, pleaded not guilty to one count of prior gun possession.
White, who was involved with McBride at the time, will be sentenced next year.
The couple allegedly tried to help White’s son Jaline White avoid arrest following the shooting.
Earlier this year, Jaylin White pleaded no contest to second-degree robbery and was sentenced to four years in prison.