Bethany Bernatsky : “Moser Pleads Guilty to Bethany Bernatsky’s Murder – Brainerd Dispatch”

BRAINERD — Friends and family gathered to honor the memory of Bethany Anne Bernatsky, a beloved individual whose life was tragically cut short in a senseless act of violence.

The man responsible for the shooting death of Bethany Bernatsky in 2021, Cameron Jay Moser, recently accepted a plea deal that resulted in a sentencing hearing at Crow Wing County District Court on Wednesday, June 12. During the investigation into the murder, it was revealed that Moser mistakenly believed Bernatsky to be his ex-girlfriend, leading to the tragic events that unfolded.

Moser’s Sentencing

Cameron Jay Moser was convicted of intentional murder in the second degree for the death of Bethany Bernatsky and received a 34-year prison sentence. In Minnesota, this sentence includes a minimum term of two-thirds of the total sentence served in prison, followed by supervised release for the remaining one-third.

Appearing in court with his attorneys, Daniel Hawley and Conrad Kragness, Moser agreed to plead guilty to second-degree intentional murder, with the state dismissing the remaining first-degree murder charges related to premeditation. By accepting the plea deal, Moser waived his right to a trial.

Details of the Plea Agreement

County Attorney Don Ryan informed the court that Moser had no prior criminal history, and the offense would typically carry a recommended sentence of 261-267 months based on a score of 11. However, the plea agreement called for an upward departure to a 409-month sentence due to the “particular cruelty” of the crime.

As part of the plea agreement, the victims, including Bernatsky’s family and friends, agreed to the terms presented. Moser acknowledged his understanding of the plea agreement and expressed his willingness to proceed.

Victim Impact Statements

Several individuals, including Charlene Radtke and Melissa Korby, shared emotional victim impact statements during the hearing. They described Bethany Bernatsky as a kind, generous soul who touched the lives of many through her love of horses and dedication to teaching.

Radtke recalled her deep friendship with Bernatsky, referring to her as a “soul sister” and highlighting her forgiving nature and passion for helping others. Korby expressed the profound loss she felt at the sudden and violent death of her friend, emphasizing Bernatsky’s special qualities and the lasting impact of her absence.

Family Statements

Bethany Bernatsky’s brother, Ben Bernatsky, also addressed the court, expressing his grief over the loss of his sister and his disappointment in Moser’s actions. He spoke of the lasting impact of the tragedy on their family and urged Moser to use his time in prison for self-reflection and redemption.

After hearing the statements from the victims’ loved ones, Moser declined to speak and received his sentencing of 409 months in prison, along with fines, fees, and restitution. The judge commended the heartfelt statements made during the hearing, underscoring the gravity of the tragedy.

Criminal Case Overview

Moser faced felony murder charges stemming from the events at Cozy Bay Resort on October 7, 2021. The investigation revealed Moser’s mistaken identity and his connection to the victim’s ex-girlfriend, who had previous ties to the resort where the crime occurred.

Law enforcement efforts to establish a direct connection between Moser and Bernatsky proved inconclusive, but the resemblance to Moser’s ex-girlfriend raised suspicions. The grand jury indictment added charges of premeditated murder and intentional murder in the first degree to Moser’s case.

The tragic events of that fateful night, including the 911 calls reporting gunshots and Moser’s subsequent arrest, painted a chilling picture of the crime scene. Evidence linking Moser to the murder, including DNA samples and witness testimonies, further solidified the case against him.

Conclusion

The sentencing of Cameron Jay Moser for the murder of Bethany Bernatsky marks a somber chapter in this tragic story. While the legal process has provided some closure for the victim’s family and friends, the profound impact of this senseless act of violence will forever linger in their hearts and minds.

For more information and updates on this case, please contact Renee Richardson, managing editor, at 218-855-5852 or renee.richardson@brainerddispatch.com. Follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DispatchBizBuzz.