Former prosecutor known for high-profile cases and advocacy for Soviet Jews faces legal trouble after retirement, charged with sex offense.
Eugene Gold, a former Brooklyn district attorney known for his tough stance on crime, passed away at the age of 100 in August. He gained recognition for leading the prosecution of David Berkowitz, the infamous Son of Sam serial killer, in the late 1970s. Gold’s efforts in the case helped bring justice to the victims and their families.
Gold served as district attorney for 13 years before stepping down in 1981. During his tenure, he also advocated for the rights of Jewish individuals in the Soviet Union, becoming a prominent figure in the international community. However, his reputation was tarnished in 1983 when he faced charges related to a sex offense involving a minor.
In the case of David Berkowitz, Gold was one of three district attorneys in New York City involved in the prosecution. Berkowitz, a postal clerk from Yonkers, was arrested in 1977 for a series of shootings that resulted in the deaths of six people and injuries to seven others. The attacks, which took place over a year in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, instilled fear in the community and led to Berkowitz being dubbed the “the .44-caliber killer” by the media.
Gold’s legacy extends beyond his work on the Son of Sam case. He was a dedicated public servant who made significant contributions to the legal system and the community he served. His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact will be remembered for years to come.
Source: The NY Times
