If convicted as charged, Jenia Resha Belt faces up to 15 years to life in state prison

TORRANCE, Calif. - A 33-year-old Los Angeles security guard was charged with striking and killing an 18-year-old Loyola High School student and tennis standout while driving under the influence in Manhattan Beach earlier this year.

"This case represents an unimaginable loss - not only for Braun Levi's family, but for his school, his teammates and an entire community that watched a remarkable young man build a bright future," Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said. "My office has zero tolerance for reckless behavior that endangers lives. Driving under the influence is not a mistake; it is a profound disregard for human life. We extend our deepest condolences to the Levi family and everyone grieving this devastating loss."

Jenia Resha Belt (dob 2/28/92) of Los Angeles is charged in case 25TRCF01022 with one felony count of murder, one felony count of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, as well as one misdemeanor count of driving when privilege suspended or revoked for driving with specified blood alcohol level. She is being held on $2 million bail. Her arraignment has been continued to Jan. 13 in Department C of the Torrance Courthouse.

On May 4, 2025, at approximately 12:45 a.m., Belt allegedly struck Braun Levi while driving intoxicated and speeding as Levi was crossing Sepulveda Boulevard at Ronda Drive in Manhattan Beach. Levi was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

If convicted as charged, Belt faces up to 15 years to life in state prison.

This case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Brittany Vannoy of the DUI Training and Prosecution Section and remains under investigation by the Manhattan Beach Police Department.

The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.