Houston Man Sentenced to Life Without Parole for Deadly Recording Studio Robbery

A Houston man, Ethan Jenkins, 28, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole after being convicted of capital murder in the robbery and shooting of an employee at a Sunnyside recording studio. The incident occurred on March 25, 2019, at Hoodkats Music Group (HKMG) located at 4119 Reed Road, across the street from Worthing High School.

Jenkins, armed and waiting for the opportune moment, watched the studio’s parking lot from a nearby smoke shop. After most people had left, he entered the recording studio with a gun, demanding valuables. The victim, 42-year-old Jon Whitfield, also armed, engaged in a shootout with Jenkins. Whitfield lost his life in the exchange of gunfire.

Following Whitfield’s death, Jenkins ransacked the studio and coerced another employee at gunpoint to reveal the location of valuable items. Assistant District Attorney Napoleon Stewart, along with ADA Jacob Salinas, prosecuted the case, presenting evidence that revealed the premeditated nature of the crime.

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg emphasized the deliberate and planned nature of the armed robbery and shootout, stating that Jenkins “gunned down a man who was a good father and a loving grandfather for practically nothing.” As a result of his conviction, Jenkins was automatically sentenced to life in prison without parole.