A Canadian man has been sentenced to two consecutive life terms for the attempted murder of a couple during a home invasion in Salinas, California. Devin Wolfgang Vanderhoef, 26, of North Vancouver, British Columbia, was convicted by a jury in February for the November 2024 attack.
Prosecutors stated that Vanderhoef spent approximately a year fixated on a woman he met online before meticulously planning the cross-border assault. Authorities reported that he traveled from Canada to California, disguised himself as an Amazon delivery driver to gain entry into the victims' home, and carried out a violent assault. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office noted that Vanderhoef purchased knives, handcuffs, and duct tape in preparation for the attack and surveilled the woman's home and workplace for over a month prior to his arrival.
Vanderhoef was not alone in his endeavor. He traveled with Darius Avery White, who was apprehended while attempting to board a flight back to Canada. White pleaded guilty to assault charges, testified against Vanderhoef, and was sentenced in April.
On the night of the attack, Vanderhoef allegedly approached the home and, when the woman's boyfriend answered the door, initiated a violent confrontation. Prosecutors said Vanderhoef forced his way inside and stabbed the boyfriend. The struggle continued outside as both victims attempted to flee, and the boyfriend managed to disarm Vanderhoef and stab him. The attack persisted as Vanderhoef then tackled the female victim and choked her. Both individuals survived the assault.
Investigators indicated that Vanderhoef confessed his intent was to kill someone. In addition to the two consecutive life sentences for attempted murder, he received an additional five years for inflicting bodily injury and using a weapon during the commission of the crime.
“We hope this case serves as a powerful reminder that online interactions can carry real-world consequences,” said Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto. “We encourage parents and community members to remain engaged, informed, and proactive in protecting themselves and their children.”