SANTA ANA, Calif. – A California man was found guilty of first-degree murder with a hate crime enhancement in the stabbing death of Blaze Bernstein, a gay University of Pennsylvania student from a Jewish family. Samuel Woodward, 26, was convicted after a monthslong trial that sought to unravel the motive behind Bernstein’s killing, which occurred while he was home on winter break in Southern California.
During the trial, prosecutor Jennifer Walker highlighted Woodward’s ties to the extremist group Atomwaffen Division, known for its violent, anti-gay, and antisemitic ideologies. Walker emphasized that Woodward’s actions were driven by hate, as he sought out the group’s beliefs rather than just being influenced by them.
Woodward, who faces the possibility of life without parole with the hate crime enhancement, was defended by attorney Ken Morrison. Morrison argued that Woodward did not plan to kill Bernstein and did not harbor any hatred towards anyone, pushing for a lesser charge of second-degree murder or manslaughter.
It was revealed during the trial that Woodward and Bernstein had attended the same high school in Orange County and had reconnected through a dating app. Woodward claimed that he stabbed Bernstein after an altercation over a cellphone in a nearby park, where he allegedly went with Bernstein voluntarily.
Prosecutors presented evidence showing Woodward’s online interactions with gay men, abrupt break-offs, and vile journal entries documenting his hateful intentions. They emphasized Woodward’s interest in committing violent acts and reaching out to Bernstein online before the tragic incident.
Despite challenges in Woodward’s personal relationships, including struggles with undiagnosed autism, confusion about his sexuality, and a conservative upbringing in a devout Catholic family, the jury found him guilty of the murder of Bernstein.
The case, which took years to go to trial due to mental health concerns and legal representation changes, finally concluded with a conviction for Woodward. Bernstein, 19 at the time of his death, was found stabbed multiple times in the face and neck, his body hidden in a shallow grave in a park near where he was last seen with Woodward.
Authorities discovered incriminating evidence at Woodward’s family home, including a bloodied knife, an Atomwaffen mask, and materials promoting hate groups. The district attorney of Orange County, Todd Spitzer, condemned the act of hate and emphasized society’s stance against those who terrorize vulnerable members.
As the trial comes to a close, Woodward’s defense plans to appeal the verdict, citing key rulings that they believe impacted the fairness of the trial proceedings. The conviction serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of hate crimes and the importance of justice in holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.