EVERETT — One man lost his freedom; the other, his life.
Two families were left to endure the pain of the gruesome murder last summer.
On Friday, Gary A. Sturdevant was sentenced to nearly 19 years in prison for killing his estranged wife’s boyfriend.
After reaching a plea deal, Sturdevant, 42, admitted last week that he was responsible for the Aug. 2, 2010 death of Mark Harris. He was originally charged with first-degree murder but pleaded to the lesser charge of second-degree murder.
Harris, 46, lived with Sturdevant’s wife while the defendant was in jail. They remained together after Sturdevant was released. She obtained a restraining order against Sturdevant.
Harris was found nearly decapitated, hidden under some brush near Ebey Slough. Sturdevant reportedly told police that he’d ambushed Harris while the man was tending a fire. After stabbing and kicking him, he slit his throat.
Sturdevant told police the victim deserved what happened, that he enjoyed killing him and that his only regret was not making him suffer, according to court papers.
Sturdevant said nothing Friday when a judge asked him if he had wanted to speak.
State sentencing guidelines called for between 12 and 20 years in prison. Prosecutors and the defense agreed to recommend nearly 19 years; the sentence imposed by the judge.
Prosecutors said the plea insured the defendant would face justice, prevented years of possible appeals and “avoided further victimization of Mark Harris” by attacks on his character.
Juanita Linn, a friend who spoke on behalf of the victim’s family, described Harris as “a hugger” and someone who would call just to say “I love you,” or stop by to mow the lawn.
“We all look forward…to seeing Mark once again in heaven,” she said.
Sturdevant’s mother and a sister described the defendant as a hard-working family man.
He also had a history of drug and alcohol problems and suspected Harris of molesting his young daughter, according to court records. He had been using methamphetamine before the murder a blood test showed after his arrest.
Some in the community have repeatedly attacked Harris’ memory. In court papers filed before Friday’s sentencing, prosecutors said there is no credible evidence that Harris molested anyone.
Judge Thomas Wynne called the killing an “extremely violent and unprovoked” act that resulted from anger and jealousy.
Eric Stevick: 425-339-3446; stevick@heraldnet.com.
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