A San Joaquin County jury has found Scott Sherman, 40, guilty of first-degree murder for the fatal shooting of Felix Makinano in Lodi on October 3, 2023. The jury also found true a firearm enhancement under Penal Code § 12022.53(d) and convicted Sherman of carrying a loaded firearm (P.C. § 25850) and possession of a controlled substance (H&S § 11377, misdemeanor).

According to evidence presented at trial, Sherman had been drinking and consuming psilocybin (“magic mushrooms”) at his Lodi apartment before meeting the victim outside Garry’s Lounge. Witness testimony revealed that Sherman became paranoid, armed himself with a firearm, and ultimately shot Mr. Makinano twice in the back as the unarmed victim attempted to flee.
Following the shooting, Sherman returned to his apartment, turned off the lights, and attempted to disable his video surveillance system before being taken into custody by the Lodi Police Department SWAT team.
“Today’s verdict brings justice for the family of Felix Makinano, who was tragically shot and killed,” said District Attorney Ron Freitas. “Scott Sherman, who was charged with first-degree murder with a firearm enhancement, has been held accountable for this senseless act. This conviction underscores our commitment to protecting all members of our community, including the most vulnerable.”

Sherman is scheduled to be sentenced on December 15, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in Department 7A before the Honorable Judge Jacot. His sentence ranges from 25 years to life, up to 50 years to life, depending on the court’s decision regarding the firearm enhancement.

We thank Deputy District Attorney Alexander Henry for prosecuting this case and the Lodi Police Department for their thorough investigation.