David Berkowitz, widely known as the "Son of Sam," was born on June 1, 1953. This date is consistently reported across court records, biographies, and reputable news archives. Berkowitz emerged as a notorious figure in New York City during the late 1970s, and his birth date forms part of the foundational timeline used by investigators, historians, and researchers studying the case. The following profile explains key biographical details, provides verified context for common questions, and organizes information for long-term reference value.
Key Biographical Facts
Reliable public records and authoritative sources align on several core attributes of Berkowitz’s early life. These include his birth name, place of birth, and family background, all contributing to a clearer portrait of the person behind the headlines.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full birth name | David Richard Berkowitz | Court / Biography |
| Date of birth | June 1, 1953 | Vital records, news archives |
| Place of birth | Brooklyn, New York, United States | Prison intake, public records |
| Known as | Son of Sam; David Berkowitz | Media, court documents |
| First arrest related to shootings | August 1977 | Law enforcement records |
Context Around the Birth Date
June 1, 1953, situates Berkowitz’s early years in postwar New York, a period of significant demographic and cultural change in the city. Understanding this timeframe helps explain the environment in which his later actions unfolded, although individual choices ultimately define a life path. Public interest in his birth details persists because it anchors a broader timeline of the Son of Sam investigations, court proceedings, and ongoing public discussion.
Common Questions About His Birth
People frequently seek specific details to better understand Berkowitz’s background and the context of his crimes. Clear, sourced answers help separate verified information from speculation.
Where and when was David Berkowitz born?
He was born in Brooklyn, New York, on June 1, 1953, according to court and public records that remain consistent across multiple authoritative references.
What was his birth name?
David Richard Berkowitz. He used this full name in official documents throughout his legal proceedings.
Why does his birth date matter?
Establishing an exact birth date is standard in criminal justice and biographical reporting. It supports accurate timeline construction for investigations, sentencing considerations, and historical documentation.
Biographical Overview
After his birth in Brooklyn, Berkowitz’s early experiences in New York City preceded a criminal trajectory that drew national attention in the mid-1970s. Law enforcement linked a series of shootings to a single actor, and Berkowitz was apprehended in 1977. Courts later determined his responsibility, and he has remained incarcerated since then. His case continues to be studied for insights into criminal behavior, media influence, and urban policing.
Notable Details and Records
Official documents and high-profile trials establish a clear record of Berkowitz’s identity and timeline. Birth registration, arrest logs, and sentencing records all corroborate the June 1, 1953 date. These records are routinely referenced by researchers, legal professionals, and journalists seeking authoritative information.
Reliable Sourcing and Verification
In biographical reporting, trustworthy sources include court filings, correctional intake data, and established news archives. These materials undergo editorial review and are corroborated by multiple organizations. For long-term topics like Berkowitz’s profile, such sourcing supports accuracy and durability of information.
Public Interest and Historical Context
The Son of Sam case captivated New York and the broader United States during the 1970s. Berkowitz’s birth date anchors discussions about the era’s social conditions, investigative techniques of the time, and advances in forensic science. This context remains relevant for understanding how such high-profile cases are investigated and reported.