Jonathan Fahey, a former DHS deputy assistant secretary, has criticized anti-ICE protests in Brooklyn that obstructed hospital entrances. He condemned Mayor Mamdani’s response and expressed concerns about proposed New York bills. These bills could potentially lead to the release of violent criminals, such as serial killers, under the ‘elder parole bill’ which applies to those aged 55 and above. The debate around these proposals has generated significant public safety concerns across the state.
The infamous .44-caliber killer, David Berkowitz, known as the ‘Son of Sam,’ began his killing spree almost 50 years ago. He currently distrusts the media, believing they distort his words. His initial victim, 18-year-old Donna Lauria, was shot in the Bronx on July 29, 1976. Berkowitz refrained from participating in an interview through Keith Rovere, host of the ‘Lighter Side of True Crime’ podcast.
“I don’t trust the media,” Berkowitz wrote in a letter, shared with Fox News Digital. “They will twist and distort whatever I say.”
New York lawmakers are considering bills that would establish an elder parole system and eliminate life without parole. Berkowitz, in a recent letter, mentioned he is not seeking release. He conveyed to the New York Post his focus is on a spiritual journey rather than freedom.
One of Berkowitz’s survivors, Robert Violante, expressed skepticism about Berkowitz’s potential redemption.
“I sincerely doubt he is going to heaven,” Violante said.
Violante survived a gunshot to the head on July 31, 1977, though his date, Stacy Moskowitz, did not. She was Berkowitz’s last victim before his arrest.
The ‘Son of Sam’ murders caused widespread fear in New York City. Many avoided sitting in parked cars, and women altered their hairstyles to avoid similarity to Berkowitz’s targeted victims. Evidence linked several shootings to Berkowitz in early 1977. His correspondence with columnist Jimmy Breslin taunted law enforcement and cemented his notorious nickname.
Berkowitz’s letters provided insights into his mindset and intent. Criminal profiler John Kelly suggests Berkowitz’s actions were driven by feelings of revenge and jealousy.
Berkowitz’s capture followed another shooting that led police to track a parking ticket in the vicinity, culminating in his arrest on August 10, 1977. His shootings resulted in the deaths of six individuals and injuries to seven others.
Throughout his time in prison, Berkowitz has reportedly changed. He now claims to be a born-again Christian, referring to himself as the ‘Son of Hope.’ Berkowitz engages in prison ministry and produces religious content.
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