Bond denied for Morris

By The Daily Progress Staff

Published: May 16, 2008

A 67-year-old Gordonsville man charged in connection with a 20-year-old slaying case will remain in the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail.

Alvin Lee Morris was denied bond Friday morn-ing in Albemarle General District Court. He was charged this week with first-degree murder, robbery and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

Roger L. Shifflett, 38, was found shot in the back of the head June 20, 1988, at the Southwind Gas and Grocery Store on Route 20. Police said $135 was miss-ing from the store.

Defense attorney Francis Lawrence said his client retired from a 30-year career at Safeway stores in 1989. He worked in land-scaping for about five years, and then worked as a con-tract driver with the U.S. Postal Service for 12 years.

Lawrence appeared on Morris’ behalf Friday, but said his client may seek another attorney. Morris is scheduled to return June 26 to court.