David Berkowitz #78-A-1976
Shawangunk Correctional Facility
P.O. Box
Wallkill, NY 12589-0700
March 28, 2023
Dear Mr. Esposito:
Sam began, his punctuation as good as ever.
“I have two letters from you. I apologize for being slow in replying. I am familiar with you from the media and I know you have impressive credentials.
You mentioned writing a book about the late Jimmy Breslin. At the time of the crimes I believe I was not in my full right mind. It took years for me to come to terms with this and to stop living in denial of my then mental state. For me it has been a long and winding road.
Point being, looking back I don’t even know why I reach [sic] out to Mr. Breslin in the first place. Today I vaguely remember him or any of his many stories. I don’t even remember much of anything that he write [sic] concerning the Son of Sam case.
I do however have continual remorse and sorrow over what transpired in 1976-77. God knows that if I could go back in time and change the course of history, I would. We know this is not possible, but I do continue to pray for the families of those who lost a loved one, and those who were wounded.
The letter is neatly typed as well as cogent. He goes on to decline the offer of a visit and an interview.
I do not wish to be interviewed and I wish to decline your offer to visit. This is not in any way rejection. I simply cannot deal with this anymore and I remember so very little of those days.
The letter was signed in blue ink in a neat hand, “David” followed by the typed full name: David Berkowitz.
It is considerably different, after more than forty-five years in prison, than his first letters. Now he was contrite. When he was caught, he smirked.
“If you ever noticed when they were bringing him outta police headquarters, the night he was arrested, the look of happiness in his face,” Bill Clark said. “He was longing for the day that he would get the recognition of being the Son of Sam. It wasn’t just the killing itself. I really believe that one day he wanted to get the recognition.”