A 19-year-old man learned his fate in a Hamilton County courtroom on Tuesday, receiving a prison sentence of 25 to 29 years for his role in the shooting death of a 47-year-old woman in Evanston last year.

Ajani Grimes, who was 18 at the time of the incident, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and other related charges in connection with the killing of Laura Schueler. Schueler, a well-known member of the local community and a transgender woman, was found shot to death on Jonathan Avenue in June 2025.

The sentencing brought an emotional conclusion to a case that has haunted the Evanston neighborhood for over a year. Family and friends of Schueler were present in the courtroom, with some delivering powerful victim impact statements. "I hope you rot in hell," one family member told Grimes during the proceedings, reflecting the deep pain and anger felt by those who knew the victim.

Investigators say the shooting occurred in the early morning hours of June 7, 2025. Grimes was arrested a month later by the Cincinnati Police Department's Homicide Unit following an intensive investigation. While the plea deal reduced the initial murder charges, the lengthy sentence ensures that Grimes will spend the majority of his adult life behind bars.

The case has also highlighted ongoing concerns regarding violence against transgender individuals in the region. Community advocates have pointed to Schueler's death as a tragic reminder of the risks faced by the LGBTQ+ community, calling for continued efforts to address gun violence and hate-motivated crimes.

Grimes will begin serving his sentence immediately. Under the terms of the indefinite sentencing law, he could serve up to 29 years depending on his behavior while incarcerated.