On Monday, May 6, Dr. Scott Bonn joined television news anchor and correspondent, radio host, and best-selling author, Rita Cosby on her national radio show on WOR710 New York’s News and Talk to discuss his recent prison visit with David Berkowitz, the infamous Son of Sam.
Cosby landed an in person interview with Berkowitz in 2002 when he wrote a three page letter to her during the DC sniper shootings imparting his opinions and asking for the sniper to stop. A common subject, Berkowitz, Bonn and Cosby share their views about their individual time spent with him.
Scott Bonn has been corresponding with Berkowitz for several years as research for an upcoming book (tentatively titled Why We Love Serial Killers thus gaining his trust and finally being granted an in person visit at Sullivan Correctional Facility in Fallsburg, NY. Bonn came away from the meeting with a sense of sincerity from Berkowitz about his conversion to Christianity and his ministry within the prison. Bonn reports that the Son of Sam is now known as Son of Hope because of his wish to help others spiritually.
Listen to the podcast:
Scott Bonn and Rita Cosby are two of several who have corresponded with David Berkowitz over the years, including many who are skeptical about his conversion. In a 2010 New York Times story it states:
Joseph Coffey, the police sergeant who took Mr. Berkowitz’s initial confession, said his statements about his religious convictions were as believable as his amended claim that members of a satanic cult to which he belonged were responsible for some of the shootings.
“It’s a total charade to promote himself,” said Mr. Coffey, who retired from the Police Department in 1985. “I have had people who I sent to prison or put in the witness protection program find religion because it suits them by providing them access to the outside world.”
But, the article contains several accounts from others who feel Berkowitz is sincere in his beliefs and his actions prove that he has turned over a new leaf, including Andy Kahan, the crime victims assistance director to the mayor of Houston who works diligently to prevent people from profiting on the sale of items from notorious criminals, received assistance from Berkowitz in statements and opinions on the “murderabilia” industry. Kahan read the statements in the Texas legislature hearings. He concurs with those who feel Berkowitz is genuine:
“You can’t change the past, but you can alter the future,” Mr. Kahan said, “and by working with me on this issue, it certainly shows that he is trying to make amends.”
The debate about Berkowitz will go on for a long time, he will never be out from behind prison walls and, according to Scott Bonn, has no intention of asking for parole in the future. He seems content with his life, has made apologies, and is working on being an example to others.
Dr. Scott Bonn will include even more details of his visit in his upcoming book, along with his insights to other serial killers he has corresponded with, including Dennis Rader, the BTK Killer and his theories on the identity of Jack the Ripper. Why We Love Serial Killers will be published by Skyhorse Publishing and be available in fall of 2014.
Dr. Scott Bonn is located in Manhattan and is available for live on-air commentary, expert consultation and speaking engagements. More information about his experience and past media appearances can be found at his website, DocBonn.Com Please call (843.808.0859) or email (contact@imaginepublicity.com) to discuss media opportunities.
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