Jenkins sentenced to 33 years

In September 2006, things were looking up for Gordon Harris, his brother told a jury in Prince William Circuit Court on

Thursday.

"He had been through some things in his life, but things were finally getting back on track for him," James Harris said. "It was the happiest time of his life. That's what's so disappointing."

Gordon Harris, 49, was shot to death on Sept. 19, 2006, while standing near the corner of Featherstone Road and Farm Creek Drive in Woodbridge.

This week a jury convicted Walter Douglas Jenkins, 32, of first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony in Harris' death.

The jury recommended on Thursday that Jenkins serve a total of 33 years in prison.

In court testimony during the sentencing phase of the trial, Harris' family members described him as a loving brother and father.

"He had turned into a wonderful person," his brother said in court Thursday.

"Me and him, we had the closest bond," Harris' daughter, Chastity, said. "He was my only support."

Several jurors cried quietly and dabbed their eyes with tissues as Harris' family members spoke about him.

Jenkins' mother also testified in the sentencing phase of the trial. She said her son had a good upbringing and was a well-liked and respected member of the Washington, D.C., community where they lived.

"He is a nice guy. Respectful. And he was always willing to help neighbors out," she said.

During this week's trial, witnesses said that about a week before the shooting, Jenkins and Harris got into an argument. Harris was angry that Jenkins often drove down from Washington, D.C., and "undercut" the men who regularly waited for daily work near the Featherstone Industrial Center, by offering to work for less money and taking jobs from them, prosecutors said.

Prosecutors argued that the dispute angered Jenkins and on Sept. 19 he decided to get his revenge. He dressed in all black, a hooded sweatshirt and a mask, and shot Harris several times at close range.

No one saw the shooter's face, but two witnesses saw Jenkins about two miles from the crime scene, acting suspiciously, after the shooting.

Police also found gunshot residue on Jenkins' hands.

Jenkins' sentencing hearing is scheduled for Sept. 11.

Under Virginia law, a judge can sentence him to less than the jury's recommended sentence, but not to more.

Staff writer Amanda Stewart can be reached at 703-878-8014.