A San Francisco jury found Nima Momeni guilty of second-degree murder on Tuesday in the fatal stabbing of Cash App founder Bob Lee in April 2023. The jury, composed of six men and six women, decided against convicting Momeni of first-degree murder, which carries a harsher penalty. The second-degree murder charge could result in a sentence of 16 years to life in prison.
The trial, which began in October, concluded with jury deliberations starting on December 4. After the verdict was read, Momeni remained expressionless, though one of his attorneys placed a hand on his shoulder.
San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins commended her team and law enforcement for their efforts, sharing the Lee family’s relief with the verdict. Jenkins also emphasized that the case stemmed from a personal dispute and was not reflective of broader crime issues in San Francisco.
Bob Lee’s brother, Tim Oliver Lee, expressed disappointment that Momeni was not convicted of first-degree murder but accepted the jury’s decision.
Momeni is set to appear in court on January 10, when his sentencing date will be determined.
Bob Lee was stabbed to death in April 2023 under the Bay Bridge, initially sparking fears of random street violence in San Francisco. However, the arrest of Nima Momeni, a fellow tech professional, shifted the narrative.
Prosecutors argued that Momeni attacked Lee in a fit of rage, believing that Lee’s alleged drug dealer had given Momeni’s sister, Khazar, date-rape drugs and groped her. Lee was stabbed three times, including once in the heart. Evidence presented included Lee’s blood on the knife blade and Momeni’s DNA on the handle.
Khazar Momeni testified during the trial but claimed memory lapses due to drug use. The six-week trial also highlighted Lee’s social circle and their use of recreational drugs, though witnesses described him as a non-aggressive “teddy bear” who avoided conflicts.
