Arizona Maniac Who Crucified Beloved Pastor Begs for Death Penalty — ‘The Victims Want It. The Victim’s Families Want It. I Want It, and the Taxpayers Want It.’
An Arizona man who admitted to killing a local pastor in a highly disturbing manner is now asking a judge to sentence him to death.
Adam Sheafe, 51, has confessed to the killing of 76-year-old Pastor William Schonemann, describing the act as part of what he called “Operation First Commandment.” According to authorities, Sheafe claimed he was targeting multiple Christian leaders across the country, believing they were misleading their congregations.
The killing happened in April 2025 at the pastor’s home in New River. Schonemann, who led New River Bible Chapel, was found dead in his bed. Investigators say the scene had been staged to resemble a crucifixion.
Police report that Sheafe entered the home after stealing a vehicle from the nearby community of Cave Creek. After the incident, he admitted responsibility to federal investigators and also spoke about the crime publicly before formal charges were filed.
Prosecutors have charged Sheafe with several serious offenses, including first-degree murder, burglary, kidnapping, theft, and attempted murder tied to his alleged broader plan.
NEW: Man who crucified a pastor in AZ and planned on doing the same to about a dozen others, begs judge for the death penalty.
76-year-old pastor Bill Schonemann was found in his bed with his arms stretched wide, pinned to the wall with a crown of thorns.
Christopher Sheafe,… pic.twitter.com/0mkDroPxGO
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) March 15, 2026
During a recent court appearance in Maricopa County Superior Court, where he chose to represent himself, Sheafe attempted to plead guilty immediately and expressed frustration with the pace of the legal process.
He told the court that he has never denied his actions and argued that all parties involved, including the victim’s family and his own, deserve closure. He also pointed to the nature of the crime and the victim’s age as reasons he believes the death penalty is appropriate.
Sheafe urged the court to move forward with a death sentence without delay, stating that he, the victims, and the public would all benefit from a swift resolution.
The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office has confirmed that it is pursuing capital punishment in the case.
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