Sentence follows multi-year investigation and trial
ROCHESTER — A judge on Thursday imposed the maximum term for the man convicted of killing a local musician during a robbery nearly four years ago, bringing a lengthy criminal case to a close for the victim’s family and Rochester investigators.
Judge Victoria Argento sentenced 22-year-old Rahjule Keeton to 25 years to life in prison after a Monroe County jury found him guilty May 19 of murder and two counts of robbery in the death of 29-year-old James Hallenbeck. Hallenbeck was shot in the early morning hours of Aug. 21, 2022, while walking on Olean Street on the city’s southwest side, authorities said.
What prosecutors and family said
Assistant District Attorney Michael Caranante described the killing as a senseless robbery that took the life of an innocent man. He credited Rochester police and the victim’s parents for persistent work that eventually led to Keeton’s arrest and conviction.
"James Hallenbeck was simply taking a late-night walk when his life was stolen through a senseless act of violence," Assistant District Attorney Michael Caranante said in a statement.
The defendant fled the scene in a vehicle after the shooting and was arrested more than three years later on Nov. 17, 2025. Hallenbeck’s brother attended the sentencing and confronted Keeton for the first time in court.
"It took four years to get to this point. But we're grateful for all of the work that the Rochester Police Department has put in, and to the judge and jury especially for their completely honest view of the situation. He's very missed every day," said Zachary Hallenbeck.
Local investigation, timeline and outcome
The case highlights a multi-year investigative effort by Rochester police and prosecutors to gather evidence and pursue leads that culminated in trial and a maximum sentence. Prosecutors said no sentence can restore the life lost, but that the punishment ensures accountability.
- Victim: James Hallenbeck, 29
- Defendant: Rahjule Keeton, 22
- Incident: Shot and killed during a robbery on Olean Street, Aug. 21, 2022
- Arrest: Nov. 17, 2025
- Conviction: May 19, 2026 — murder and two counts of robbery
- Sentence: July 9, 2026 — 25 years to life
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Aug. 21, 2022 | Hallenbeck fatally shot on Olean Street |
| Nov. 17, 2025 | Keeton arrested |
| May 19, 2026 | Jury convicts Keeton |
| July 9, 2026 | Keeton sentenced to 25 years to life |
Community impact and next steps
Friends and family described Hallenbeck as a musician and member of the Rochester community. The case underscored continuing concerns about nighttime safety on city streets for residents and prompted officials to note the value of thorough investigative work in bringing suspects to trial.
Prosecutors and police said they will continue to pursue violent-crime investigations and stressed the role of community cooperation. For the Hallenbeck family, the sentence represents a measure of accountability after years of waiting — though, as officials noted, it cannot replace the life taken.
Coverage will continue as additional court filings — including any post-conviction proceedings that may arise — are filed in the case.
