David Berkowitz is at once one of the most complex, contradictory and enduringly fascinating serial killers. During 1976 he shot and killed six people, and wounded eight others in attacks dating back to 1975. It has been said that the media attention on serial killers prompts them to continue killing, prompting more media coverage and even more killings. Berkowitz called himself the Son of Sam after he was called it in the newspapers, and the letters he wrote were inspired by something he had read about Jack the Ripper. Cynically one could suggest that Berkowitz's own website used for his messages of remorse and faith are just part of his need for attention.
It is speculated that Berkowitz's adoption inspired in him the rage and violence that he was to later vent as the .44 caliber killer, although he apparently had a generous and caring adopted family. However, he is also the subject of much professional debate -- about his motives, his sanity and the full extent of his involvement.
During his reign of terror in New York, Berkowitz taunted the police with barely-legible but haunting letters in which he claimed he was ordered to kill by "Father Sam" -- apparently his neighbour Sam Carr, whom Berkowirz claimed was a demon -- with instructions related to him by Harvery, his neighbour's black labrador.
Berkowitz -- nicknamed the 'Son of Sam' -- was apprehended after being given a parking ticket on the night of one of his attacks. He cheerfully confessed to the murders and pleaded guilty.
He has since retracted his tales of demonic voices and evil dogs, instead giving a more straight-forward explanation of a loathing for women. Berkowitz has said, however, he was a satanist and has also claimed that his neighbour, Sam Carr's, sons John and Michael were also involved a satanic 'coven' -- among other people whose identities he hasn't revealed. John and Michael died in mysterious circumstances in 1978 and 1979. Berkowitz insists he acted alone, but "There were others who knew about them and urged me on. But I carried out the killings. I take full responsibility for my actions."
Berkowitz is a quarter-century into a prison sentence of 365 years, and has repeatedly insisted he doesn't want to be paroled. He is now a born-again Christian and author.
Whenever I hear that a prisoner doesn't want to get out of prison, it makes me think that the penal system is not doing its job.
ReplyDeleteWhen I further hear that someone in prison has become a Born Again, I pretty much give up all hope.
doesn't everyone hear strange voices telling them to do things? err..
ReplyDeleteI like your SK Sundays. Very interesting. I watched summer of sam once - shite. Had no idea what it was on about. Watched it with people who are downright disgusted by porn and therefore when the naked women appeared half way through, it was turned off. Never did find out the ending.
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