Corey Jackson sentenced to 30 years for killing ex-girlfriend in Bibb County

Gabriella Harris was fatally shot in 2022 after leaving abusive relationship, prosecutors say

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- A Bibb County man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the 2022 shooting death of his ex-girlfriend in what prosecutors called a “deadly escalation” of domestic violence, according to a news release from the Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney Anita Howard.

Corey Jackson, 31, pleaded guilty Thursday to voluntary manslaughter and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Under the sentence, he will serve the first 20 years in prison, with the remainder on probation.

Pattern of abuse ended in fatal shooting

Jackson killed 26-year-old Gabriella Harris, the mother of his child, in the early morning hours of May 21, 2022, shortly after the two had separated. Prosecutors said Jackson used visitation with their child to maintain contact with Harris against her wishes and sent repeated threats leading up to the murder.

One of the messages Jackson sent stated, “if you ever try to leave, we gone be like those people on that movie,” referencing fatal domestic violence.

District Attorney Anita Howard said Harris had tried to protect herself and her children from Jackson’s escalating behavior, which included stalking and manipulation.

Prosecutor urges awareness, prevention

“Domestic violence cases like this demonstrate the deadly escalation that can occur when threats and controlling behavior go unchecked,” Howard said. “Gabriella Harris lost her life simply for trying to protect herself and her children from an abusive relationship.”

Howard says there’s need for continued education and preventative measures within the community to stop domestic violence before it turns deadly.