WASHINGTON — Former longtime local news anchor Leon Harris, who helmed WJLA’s evening newscasts from 2003 until he left the station last October, is joining NBC Washington.

“Leon has been an in credibly well-respected journalist, both in Washington and on a national stage for many years,” said Jackie Bradford, president and general manager of NBC4/WRC-TV in a statement. “We are very glad he has agreed to join our team and continue his career here.”

Harris will anchor weekend editions of NBC Washington’s newscasts at 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. with Erika Gonzalez and will report for the station during the week.

The station said Harris, who oversaw a weekly segment on WJLA called “Harris’ Heroes,” will also report on news “that focus on inspiring people in our community.”

Harris’ first day at NBC Washington is April 21.

After WJLA announced Harris’ departure last September, Harris tweeted it wasn’t his choice to leave the station.

Before coming to D.C., Harris spent 20 years at CNN.