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Driver Accused in Braun Levi’s Death Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

A March 12 hearing will determine whether prosecutors' case moves toward trial.

Overview

  • Jenia Resha Belt, 33, entered the plea in Torrance Superior Court to charges including second-degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and driving on a suspended license.
  • She remains in custody on $2 million bail following her December charging in the case.
  • Prosecutors allege Belt had a blood-alcohol level of 0.19% and was driving on a license suspended after a prior DUI arrest.
  • Authorities say 18-year-old Loyola High School tennis standout Braun Levi was struck on May 4, 2025, in Manhattan Beach and later died at a hospital.
  • Levi’s parents have filed a $200 million wrongful-death lawsuit and continue to press for tougher DUI penalties alongside local officials.