David Berkowitz, known as the “Son of Sam” killer, was arrested on Aug. 10, 1977. This marked the end of a grim chapter in New York City, where Berkowitz’s 13-month killing spree had left six people dead and seven others injured. The quiet postal worker from Yonkers, N.Y., plunged the city into fear with a series of late-night shootings targeting women and couples in secluded spots, using a .44-caliber revolver in each attack.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/David-Berkowitz-son-of-sam-36-072925-6abfa7253b8e42d896321aa93c6361d3.jpg)
Berkowitz managed to evade capture for over a year, triggering one of the largest manhunts in NYPD history. The case took a darker turn when he left a letter at a crime scene in April 1977, identifying himself as the “Son of Sam.” Taunting letters sent to the media further fueled public panic. Finally, on Aug. 10, 1977, Berkowitz was apprehended outside his apartment. Upon arrest, he reportedly smiled and uttered, “You got me. What took you so long?”
One intriguing element of Berkowitz’s capture was the role of a parking ticket. Detectives investigating the scene of Berkowitz’s final attack on July 31, 1977, flagged a parking ticket. Initially considered a possible witness, Berkowitz drew suspicion when he failed to respond to calls. Authorities traced the ticket to him and further links were established when they discovered a duffel bag in his car matching the killer’s handwriting. On the day of his arrest, officers found a rifle protruding from the bag and an envelope addressed to Suffolk County police.
Following his arrest, Berkowitz pleaded guilty to the murders and was sentenced to six terms of 25 years to life. Currently incarcerated at Shawangunk Correctional Facility in Wallkill, N.Y., Berkowitz is now a born-again Christian who goes by the name “Brother Dave.” He has expressed deep remorse for his crimes and has no desire for release, acknowledging the gravity of his actions.
Despite adopting the moniker “Son of Sam” in taunting letters during his crimes, Berkowitz has since rejected that title. He attributes the nickname to his neighbour’s dog, Harvey, who he claimed was possessed by demons instructing him to kill. Berkowitz now prefers to be called the “Son of Hope” and emphasises his Christian faith. Reflecting on his past deeds, he has expressed profound regret and a wish for a different path in life.
In a final heart-wrenching episode of Netflix’s docuseries “Conversations with a Killer,” Berkowitz opened up about his deep remorse for the murders he committed. He acknowledged the dark place he was in during those times and expressed a desire to advise his younger self to seek help and a different path. Despite the irreversible consequences of his actions, he remains introspective and sorrowful, grappling with the consequences of his past deeds.
Reflecting on Berkowitz’s story serves as a chilling reminder of the lasting impact of violent crimes and the complexities of human nature. His transformation from a notorious killer to a remorseful inmate offers a glimpse into the intricate layers of remorse, redemption, and the enduring quest for peace and forgiveness.