By Trend News Line 2024-06-13 10:57:00.
Killer Admits to Shooting Woman in Brainerd Cabin, 34-Year Sentence Imposed
You may also like to watch : Who Is Kamala Harris? Biography - Parents - Husband - Sister - Career - Indian - Jamaican Heritage
In a tragic turn of events, friends and family gathered in Brainerd to remember the life of Bethany Anne Bernatsky, a beautiful soul who was the victim of a senseless act of violence. The 30-year-old man responsible for her untimely death, Cameron Jay Moser, has accepted a plea deal and was sentenced on Wednesday, June 12, in Crow Wing County District Court.
Moser, who was facing first-degree murder charges in connection with Bethany Bernatsky’s shooting death in 2021, was convicted of intentional murder in the second degree. He was sentenced to 34 years in prison, with a minimum term of imprisonment equal to two-thirds of the total sentence, and supervised release equal to one-third of the total sentence.
Appearing in court alongside his attorneys Daniel Hawley and Conrad Kragness, Moser agreed to plead guilty to count three, second-degree intentional murder. The state dismissed the remaining first-degree murder charges related to premeditation as part of the plea agreement. Moser also waived his rights to a trial.
Crow Wing County Attorney Don Ryan informed Judge Erik Askegaard that Moser had no prior criminal history and the offense would give him a score of 11. The plea agreement included an upward departure in sentencing to 409 months for the “particular cruelty” of the crime.
You may also like to watch: Is US-NATO Prepared For A Potential Nuclear War With Russia - China And North Korea?
During the court proceedings, Moser admitted to entering Cabin No. 5 on the night of October 7, 2021, armed with an AR-15 rifle. He shot and wounded Bethany Bernatsky twice before walking up to her while she was conscious and shooting her in the head with the intent to kill her. Moser confirmed that there was some time between when she was wounded and killed, leading to aggravating circumstances for the crime with particular cruelty.
Several victim impact statements were made in court, highlighting the impact of Bethany Bernatsky’s death on her loved ones. Charlene Radtke, a close friend of over 20 years, described Bethany as kind, generous, and nonjudgmental. She was a talented horsewoman who excelled in Dressage and shared her passion for horses with children.
Melissa Korby, another close friend and business partner, expressed the devastating loss she felt after Bethany’s murder. Mari Jevning Baker, Moser’s former girlfriend, spoke directly to him, expressing her hope that God could use him for some purpose despite the senselessness of the crime.
Ben Bernatsky, Bethany’s brother, addressed Moser directly, expressing his belief that his sister’s sacrifice could bring about some good. He hoped that Moser would use his time in prison to reflect and change his ways.
In sentencing Moser to 409 months in prison, Judge Askegaard emphasized the severity of the crime and the need for justice to be served. Moser was also ordered to pay fines, fees, and restitution to the victim’s family.
The courtroom was filled with emotion as the proceedings came to a close, with many reflecting on the impact of Bethany Bernatsky’s life and the tragedy of her death. As the community continues to mourn her loss, they stand united in seeking justice and closure in the wake of this senseless act of violence..
“Moser pleads guilty Bethany Bernatsky murder Brainerd Dispatch”
“Moser admits guilt Bethany Bernatsky killing Brainerd Dispatch”.
