Neo-Nazi Sentenced to Life for Hate Crime Murder of Gay Student

Samuel Woodward was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the hate-motivated murder of Blaze Bernstein, a gay and Jewish student, in 2018. The judge highlighted Woodward's lack of remorse and the premeditated nature of the crime, which was influenced by his association with the neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division. Woodward's defense argued his actions were not connected to the group, but the jury found him guilty of a hate-crime enhancement. Bernstein's family and friends continue to honor his memory through the #BlazeItForward movement.