Man sentenced to at least 20 years in prison in reserve officer's shooting death

DETROIT – A man who admitted to shooting and killing a Highland Park reserve police officer who was working security at a night club has been sentenced to more than 20 years in prison.

Walter Jennings pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in Roderick Jones' death.

He was sentenced Thursday to 20 to 50 years on the murder charge and also five years on a felony firearms charge.

"I apologize to my family. I am sorry," Jennings said in court.

Jones was shot multiple times Feb. 7 outside the Opyum Lounge on Eight Mile Road.

Jones was working as a security guard at the Lounge and told Jennings he would have to leave. Shortly after, Jennings shot Jones.

Jones was also a combat veteran, having served as U.S. Army Ranger.