California Neo Nazi Sentenced to Life for Murdering Gay Jewish Student in 2018 Hate Crime

Murdering Gay Jewish Student: In a landmark case highlighting the tragic intersection of hate, violence, and intolerance, Samuel Woodward, 27, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for the brutal 2018 murder of Blaze Bernstein, a 19-year-old gay, Jewish university student.

A Hate-Fueled Attack

Blaze Bernstein was stabbed over 28 times in his face and neck by Woodward in what prosecutors deemed a hate crime motivated by Bernstein’s sexual orientation and religion. Bernstein’s body was discovered a week after his disappearance in a park near his family’s home in Lake Forest, California, roughly 45 miles from Los Angeles.

Woodward, affiliated with the neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division, targeted gay men online, according to court testimony. Prosecutors presented evidence linking him to antisemitic and anti-LGBTQ+ ideologies.

A Mother’s Heartbreak

During the emotional sentencing hearing, Bernstein’s mother, Jeanne Pepper, shared the devastating impact of her son’s murder:

“No mother should have to bury her child… My heart was so broken and yet unable to accept the reality that he was no longer part of our world.”

Pepper recalled the horrific moment she learned her son had been stabbed:

“It’s the single worst, most painful thing that has ever happened to me.”

The Night of the Murder

The tragedy unfolded after Bernstein, on winter break from the University of Pennsylvania, reconnected with Woodward through Snapchat. The two had attended the same Orange County high school and met in person the night of the murder.

Woodward told police he became enraged after Bernstein kissed him, leading to a violent altercation. He repeatedly stabbed Bernstein, later burying his body.

Evidence and Arrest

Woodward’s arrest came after investigators discovered Bernstein’s DNA in his rental car. A search of Woodward’s home uncovered a knife with traces of blood, a black Atomwaffen mask, and a journal filled with hateful messages.

Years of Delays

Woodward’s trial faced significant delays, primarily due to questions surrounding his mental health. Initially deemed incompetent to stand trial, he was later determined fit in late 2022. His defense argued that undiagnosed autism and confusion over his sexuality, exacerbated by a strict Catholic upbringing, contributed to his actions.

Community Outrage and Justice

The sentencing closes a chapter on a case that sparked outrage and grief across the nation. Bernstein’s death remains a stark reminder of the dangers posed by hatred and extremist ideologies.