Fifty years after beginning a killing spree that terrorized New York City, David Berkowitz, the serial killer known as the "Son of Sam," has stated he no longer trusts the media. Berkowitz communicated this sentiment through an intermediary, podcaster Keith Rovere, declining an interview request.
"I don't trust the media," Berkowitz wrote to Rovere in a letter shared with Fox News Digital. "They will twist and distort whatever I say. Even recently they twisted my words concerning some changes in New York's parole law which, in this instant, had nothing to do with me."
Berkowitz's first victim, 18-year-old Donna Lauria, was killed on July 29, 1976. Over the next year, his shootings claimed six lives and injured seven others, leading to widespread fear in the city. The killer taunted the public and the press with letters signed "Son of Sam."
New York lawmakers are currently considering legislation that would establish an elder parole system and abolish life without parole. These proposed bills have drawn criticism, with concerns raised that they could lead to the release of violent offenders, including serial killers.
In May, Berkowitz did not attend a parole hearing, reportedly stating in a letter to the New York Post that his only future hope was in heaven. Robert Violante, who survived one of Berkowitz's attacks, expressed skepticism about such a sentiment, telling the Post, "I sincerely doubt he is going to heaven. He is lucky he is not already in hell."
Berkowitz was arrested on August 10, 1977, after investigators linked a parking ticket found near the scene of his final shooting to his vehicle. During the search of his home, police discovered that Berkowitz had meticulously tracked other crimes, including over 1,400 fires in the New York City area.
Now serving a life sentence, Berkowitz identifies as a born-again Christian and has adopted the moniker "Son of Hope." His recent correspondence is typically typed and signed as "Bro[ther] David" or his full name. He reportedly spends his time creating illustrated religious pamphlets, posting content on his website, and engaging in prison ministry.