Man sentenced for deadly Fayette Mall shooting

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - The man who shot and killed a teenager at Fayette Mall two years ago has been sentenced.

Xavier Hardin was sentenced to a total of 22 years Thursday.

Hardin pleaded guilty to multiple charges including first-degree manslaughter. He shot and killed 17-year-old Kenneth Bottoms Jr. in August 2020. Two other people were hurt in that shooting.

The victim’s father, Kenneth Bottoms Sr., says he is satisfied with the sentence and he hopes it will give Hardin time to think about his actions

“I hope he understands the value of life and what he’s done and what he’s committed,” he said. “Hopefully, this changes somebody else’s decision, instead of pulling the trigger, maybe hash it out a different way.”

Bottoms’ father also said he feels sympathy for Hardin’s parents.

Hardin’s attorney, Rawl Kazee, says that, while he is disappointed with the sentencing, he respects the judge’s decision.

“Obviously, a little disappointing, that being said, he understood what the potential consequences were. He accepted responsibility when he entered the plea and he’s got a whole lot of healing to do. Him and his family,” Kazee said.

Hardin will get credit for two years already served.

Copyright 2022 WKYT. All rights reserved.