Additional Coverage:
- California man sentenced to life without parole in Blaze Bernstein hate-crime murder (newsbreak.com)
Hate Crime Killing Results in Life Sentence
A 27-year-old man has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for the 2018 murder of his former classmate, Blaze Bernstein. The killing was deemed a hate crime due to the victim’s sexual orientation and religion.
Victim’s Body Found in Shallow Grave
Bernstein, a 19-year-old gay and Jewish man, was found stabbed over 28 times and buried in a shallow grave after being reported missing. DNA evidence linked the defendant, Samuel Woodward, to the crime.
Anti-Gay and Hate Group Materials Found
Woodward’s cellphone contained numerous anti-gay, antisemitic, and hate group materials. He admitted to stabbing Bernstein but denied committing a hate crime.
Jury Convicts of Hate Crime Murder
After a one-day deliberation, the jury found Woodward guilty of first-degree murder with an enhancement for a hate crime. The prosecution argued that Bernstein’s sexual orientation was a motivating factor in the killing.
Victim Remembered as Pre-Med Student
Bernstein was a pre-med student at the University of Pennsylvania. He was home on winter break when he was killed. The sentencing hearing was delayed due to Woodward’s refusal to appear and his outburst during victim impact statements.