A Pennsylvania man, Justin Mohn, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole after being found guilty of the first-degree murder of his father. Mohn, 33 years old, shot his father with a gun he had recently purchased, then decapitated him using a kitchen knife and a machete. After committing the gruesome act, Mohn posted a video of his father’s severed head on YouTube.
The Crime
The murder took place on January 30, 2024. Prosecutors say that Mohn fatally shot his father and then decapitated him in a brutal manner. According to Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn, Mohn showed a “complete and utter lack of remorse” after the crime. Schorn described the crime as “unimaginable, unfathomable,” emphasizing the shocking nature of the act.
Mohn’s Claim and the YouTube Video
During the trial, Mohn stated that he had attempted to perform a “citizen’s arrest” on his father for “treason” before killing him. He then posted a 14-minute video on YouTube, which remained online for several hours before being removed. The video reportedly showed Mohn picking up his father’s decapitated head, identifying it by name, and saying, “He is now in hell for eternity.”
In the video, Mohn also ranted about the government, immigration, and the war in Ukraine. His posts and violent views had already raised concerns, with Mohn’s mother telling reporters that the police had previously warned them about his anti-government rhetoric shared online.
The Investigation and Arrest
When police arrived at the scene, they discovered a machete and a large kitchen knife in the bathtub. His father’s decapitated head was found inside a plastic bag, placed in a cooking pot near a bedroom. Mohn was arrested that same day after he was found hopping a fence at the Pennsylvania National Guard headquarters. Authorities also discovered a USB device in his possession, which contained photos of federal buildings and instructions on how to make explosives.
Mohn’s Background and Defense
Mohn had been financially supported by his parents while he was struggling to find a job. During the trial, his mother testified about his violent behavior and beliefs. A defense expert also mentioned that Mohn had written to Russia’s ambassador to the U.S., offering to give him refuge and apologizing to President Vladimir Putin for claiming to be the czar of Russia.
Despite his claims of mental instability, Mohn was ruled competent to stand trial.
Prosecutors’ Comments on the Crime
Prosecutors described the killing as “something straight out of a horror film,” calling it a “cold, calculated, organized plan”. They argued that Mohn’s actions were premeditated and deliberate.
Justin Mohn’s case has shocked many, with his violent actions and disturbing online activity drawing attention to the potential dangers of unchecked hate and mental health issues. He is now facing life in prison for the brutal murder of his father.
