Pastor found crucified in own home with crown of thorns on his head
Posted For: Emailed to TNBD
A man charged with the killing of a 76-year-old pastor in Arizona asked a judge to move his case forward more quickly so it can reach a final outcome.
Adam Sheafe, 51, is accused of killing Pastor William “Bill” Schonemann, who authorities say was found crucified outside his own home with a crown of thorns placed on his head. During a hearing Thursday in Maricopa County Superior Court, Sheafe urged the court to speed up the legal process, saying he wants the case resolved as soon as possible.
According to reports from KPNX, Sheafe told the court that prolonging the proceedings is unfair to everyone involved. He said the victim’s family, as well as his own family, deserve closure and the chance to move forward.
Sheafe also stated that if the court determines there is at least one aggravating factor and no mitigating factors, the law requires that a guilty defendant receive the death penalty. He told the judge he does not suffer from mental health problems and fully understands the consequences of what he is accused of doing. Because of that, he asked the court to go ahead and impose the sentence.

Prosecutors indicted Sheafe last July on multiple charges related to the case. Those charges include first-degree murder, three counts of attempted first-degree murder, first-degree burglary, and kidnapping.
Roughly seven months ago, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office released video on social media showing Sheafe being extradited and booked into custody.