A Bedford Stuyvesant man has been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for killing a Mount Vernon man and attempting to conceal his crime by setting fire to the victim’s corpse in the basement of a Brooklyn apartment building. Derek Whitaker, 58, stalked the victim, Jonathan Blake, for several months before committing the murder. The defendant was convicted of second-degree murder, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, fourth-degree arson, tampering with physical evidence, and concealment of a human corpse. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez stated that the defendant’s actions were depraved and that the lengthy prison sentence holds him accountable for his heinous crime.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, the murder took place in the early morning hours of March 13, 2020, on North Broadway in Yonkers. Whitaker ambushed Blake, shooting him in the head and causing his death. He then transported the victim’s body to the basement of a building where he worked as a superintendent and where his mother resided.
Three days later, on March 16, 2020, the defendant attempted to cover up the killing by setting fire to Blake’s corpse using gasoline. A resident of the building smelled smoke and discovered the defendant standing over a metal barrel with the victim’s legs protruding. The incident was reported to the building’s manager, who immediately called 911. The New York City Fire Department and the New York City Police Department arrived at the scene and arrested Whitaker.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Whitaker had been obsessively stalking Blake for four to six months prior to the murder. The two men were romantic rivals, which ultimately led to the tragic outcome.
The evidence also uncovered an unsettling detail about the defendant’s behavior after killing Blake. In the period between committing the murder and setting fire to the victim’s body, Whitaker attended a church service in Westchester County, where the victim and his family worshipped. To everyone’s horror, the defendant sat in Blake’s empty seat and even embraced the victim’s brother, further highlighting the extent of his malicious actions.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez expressed hope that the lengthy prison sentence would provide some solace to Blake’s loved ones. While nothing can bring Jonathan Blake back, the sentence ensures that the perpetrator of this heinous crime will be behind bars, making Brooklyn a safer place.
The sentencing of Derek Whitaker sends a powerful message about the seriousness of his crimes. Committing murder and attempting to conceal the evidence is an egregious act that disregards the value of human life and the pain inflicted upon the victim’s family and friends. The justice system has rightly held Whitaker accountable for his actions and removed him from society, protecting others from potential harm.
The case highlights the importance of law enforcement agencies and the community working together to prevent and address violent crimes. It is crucial for individuals to report any suspicious activity or concerns to the authorities promptly. This case also underscores the significance of early intervention and support for victims of stalking and domestic violence.
Stalking is a serious crime that can escalate to violence, as seen in this case. It is essential for potential victims to seek help and protection from law enforcement agencies and support organizations. The community should be vigilant in recognizing the signs of stalking and intervening when necessary to prevent tragic outcomes.
The impact of this crime extends beyond the immediate victims and their families. It affects the wider community, diminishes trust, and instills fear. By holding Whitaker accountable and ensuring that he faces the consequences of his actions, the justice system sends a powerful message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Derek Whitaker for the murder of Jonathan Blake and his attempts to conceal the crime emphasizes the gravity and depravity of his actions. The 25 years to life prison sentence serves as a deterrent and holds Whitaker accountable for his heinous acts. It also sends a message that the community will not tolerate violence and that the justice system will work diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
