VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A Virginia Beach man will spend 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to killing his ex-girlfriend's boyfriend in 2021, the Virginia Beach Commonwealth's Attorney announced Tuesday.
Jamel Thorogood, 34, was sentenced to 50 years in prison with 25 years suspended on charges of first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by by a non-violent felon within 10 years.
The charges stem from the deadly shooting on Aug. 17, 2021, at an apartment located on Elm Grove Court. On that day, officials said Thorogood called and texted his ex-girlfriend, who is also his child's mother, upset about her relationship with Marquise Alston.
Thorogood entered the couple's apartment while Alston and the girlfriend's children were inside. Officials said he shot Alston five times in the neck and arms, killing him.
Before leaving the apartment, Thorogood allegedly ordered the children to keep quiet. Officials said the children, however, reported the shooting to a neighbor who then called police.
A couple of days later, Thorogood was apprehended in Oxford, North Carolina, and extradited to Virginia Beach.
The 34-year-old was previously convicted for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and for a concealed weapon.
