Second person sentenced in connection to death of Bellingham man at encampment

Gale Jefferson, aged 34, was sentenced to just under 18 months in prison for his role in the death of Zachariah Janusiewicz at a Bellingham encampment. Jefferson pled guilty to seven charges, including first and second-degree murder, in July. His partner, Coleen Clark, shot Janusiewicz after accusing him of stealing their money, leading to his death. Clark, who tripped while pursuing Janusiewicz, fired a shot that struck him in the torso. She pled guilty to three charges, including manslaughter, and received a 10-year sentence in June.

The incident occurred in April 2024, raising concerns about safety and crime in encampment settings. Jefferson's reduced sentence may spark discussions on accountability for crimes within vulnerable populations. This case underscores the complex dynamics of violence and accountability in encampment communities.