35 Facts About David Berkowitz

Early Life of David Berkowitz

David Berkowitz, also known as the "Son of Sam," was one of the most notorious serial killers in American history. His early life was marked by significant events that shaped his future.

1. Born Richard David Falco on June 1, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, he was adopted by Nathan and Pearl Berkowitz shortly after birth.
2. He had a troubled childhood, often described as a loner and bullied by peers.
3. His adoptive mother died of breast cancer when he was just 14, which deeply affected him.
4. After his mother's death, his relationship with his adoptive father became strained.
5. He joined the U.S. Army in 1971, serving in South Korea before being honorably discharged in 1974.

The Crimes of the Son of Sam

Berkowitz's criminal activities began in the mid-1970s, terrorizing New York City with a series of brutal attacks.

6. His first known attack occurred on July 29, 1976, when he shot two young women sitting in a parked car.
7. Over the next year, he killed six people and wounded seven others.
8. Berkowitz used a .44 caliber Bulldog revolver in his attacks, earning the nickname "The .44 Caliber Killer."
9. He often targeted young women with long, dark hair, leading many women in New York to cut or dye their hair.
10. His attacks were random, making it difficult for police to predict his next move.

The Letters and the Media Frenzy

Berkowitz taunted the police and the media with letters, creating a media frenzy that captivated the nation.

11. He sent his first letter to the New York Police Department in April 1977, calling himself the "Son of Sam."
12. The name "Son of Sam" referred to a demon he believed was speaking to him through his neighbor's dog.
13. He sent another letter to the New York Daily News, which published it, increasing public fear.
14. The media dubbed him the "Son of Sam," a name that stuck throughout his criminal career.
15. His letters were filled with bizarre and cryptic messages, adding to the mystery and fear surrounding him.

The Capture and Confession

Berkowitz's reign of terror ended in August 1977, when he was finally captured by the police.

16. He was arrested on August 10, 1977, outside his apartment in Yonkers, New York.
17. A parking ticket issued near the scene of his last attack led police to his car and eventually to him.
18. Upon his arrest, he immediately confessed to the shootings, claiming that a demon had possessed his neighbor's dog and commanded him to kill.
19. He was charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder.
20. Berkowitz pleaded guilty to all charges, avoiding a trial.

Life in Prison

Since his capture, Berkowitz has spent his life in prison, where he has undergone significant changes.

21. He was sentenced to six consecutive life sentences, totaling 365 years in prison.
22. Berkowitz has been denied parole multiple times and remains incarcerated at Shawangunk Correctional Facility in New York.
23. In prison, he became a born-again Christian, referring to himself as the "Son of Hope."
24. He has expressed remorse for his crimes and has written several letters and essays about his faith.
25. Despite his claims of redemption, many of his victims' families remain skeptical of his transformation.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The story of David Berkowitz has left a lasting impact on American culture and the criminal justice system.

26. His crimes inspired the "Son of Sam" laws, which prevent criminals from profiting from their notoriety.
27. Numerous books, movies, and documentaries have been made about his life and crimes.
28. The case highlighted the importance of forensic psychology in understanding and profiling serial killers.
29. Berkowitz's letters and interviews have been studied by criminologists and psychologists to gain insight into the mind of a serial killer.
30. His story remains a cautionary tale about the dangers of untreated mental illness and the impact of childhood trauma.

Lesser-Known Facts

There are several lesser-known facts about Berkowitz that add depth to his complex and disturbing story.

31. He claimed that he was part of a satanic cult that influenced his actions, though this has never been proven.
32. Berkowitz was an avid reader, particularly interested in books about the occult and true crime.
33. He has been involved in various prison programs, including counseling other inmates.
34. Despite his notoriety, he has received numerous letters of support and forgiveness from people around the world.
35. Berkowitz maintains a website, managed by supporters, where he shares his writings and reflections on his life and crimes.

Final Thoughts on David Berkowitz

David Berkowitz, also known as the Son of Sam, left an indelible mark on history with his terrifying crimes in the 1970s. His actions, driven by a mix of mental illness and a desire for infamy, shocked New York City and the world. Berkowitz's capture brought relief but also raised questions about the nature of evil and the factors that drive someone to commit such heinous acts. His case remains a chilling reminder of the potential for darkness within the human psyche. Understanding Berkowitz's story helps us recognize the importance of mental health awareness and the need for vigilance in our communities. While his crimes were horrific, they also serve as a stark lesson in the complexities of human behavior and the critical need for early intervention and support for those struggling with mental health issues.