Fifty years after David Berkowitz, the infamous ‘.44-caliber killer’ known as the ‘Son of Sam,’ unleashed a year of terror across New York City, he now claims he no longer trusts the media, citing their tendency to ‘twist and distort’ his words. Berkowitz, whose killing spree began with the murder of Donna Lauria on July 29, 1976, communicated this sentiment through letters to Keith Rovere, host of the ‘Lighter Side of True Crime’ podcast, who has corresponded with the serial killer for years. Berkowitz specifically pointed to recent media coverage regarding New York’s parole law changes, stating it had ‘nothing to do with me’ and that the reporting had caused ‘needless grief and pain’ to a victim. He directed those interested in his current life and activities to his website, Ariseandshine.org, which he claims features extensive writings, videos, and interviews. Berkowitz, who previously skipped a parole hearing and expressed his sole hope of going to heaven, continues to serve a life sentence. He now identifies as a born-again Christian, calling himself the ‘Son of Hope,’ and dedicates his time to producing religious pamphlets and working on his prison ministry, signing his correspondence as ‘Bro[ther] David’ or his full name, and typing his letters rather than handwriting them as he did during his reign of terror, which claimed six lives and injured seven.
Adapted from: U.S. News Today on Fox News
