Adam Sheafe, 51, is accused of murdering 76-year-old Pastor William “Bill” Schonemann on April 28, 2025, in his New River, Arizona home. Church members found Schonemann’s body posed crucifixion-style—arms outstretched, hands pinned to a wall, crown of thorns on his head—as part of Sheafe’s alleged plot to kill 14 Christian leaders nationwide.
Defendant’s Plea
In Maricopa County Superior Court on March 12, 2026, Sheafe demanded a swift guilty plea and death sentence, arguing one aggravating factor (no mitigators like mental health issues) mandates it under law. He seeks closure for victims’ families, himself, and his own, frustrated by delays “in the interest of justice.”
Charges and Status
Indicted July 2025 on first-degree murder, three counts of attempted first-degree murder, burglary, and kidnapping—linked via home evidence, a stolen Cave Creek pickup (used in Sedona burglary), and his backpack. Sheafe confessed to the killing and staging. Prosecutors seek death; judge delayed plea to verify voluntariness. Next hearing next month.
This rare defendant-driven push for execution highlights tensions in capital cases—process prioritizes scrutiny over speed.
