Navy Sailor Pleads Guilty to Murder of Fellow Service Member

<p>A Navy sailor pleaded guilty on June 9, 2026, to the murder of a fellow service member, Petty Officer 3rd Class Angelina Resendiz, at Naval Station Norfolk. Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Jeremiah Copeland admitted to strangling Resendiz on May 29, 2025, during a military court-martial.</p><p>Copeland's plea included charges of aggravated assault by strangulation, indecent recording, obstruction of justice, and making a false official statement. He faces a minimum sentence of 40 years and two months in prison, along with a dishonorable discharge and mandatory registration as a sex offender.</p><p>During the proceedings, it was revealed that Copeland had a history of allegations involving violence against women, including a previous accusation of rape in November 2024 and other incidents prior to joining the Navy in 2023. Resendiz's mother, Esmeralda Castle, criticized Navy leadership for not acting on prior allegations against Copeland, stating that the situation was preventable.</p><p>Resendiz was last seen on May 29, 2025, but a missing-person alert was not issued until five days later. Her remains were found on June 9, 2025, in a wooded area approximately ten miles from the base. The case has drawn comparisons to the murder of Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen, which led to reforms in military policies regarding sexual harassment and assault investigations.</p><p>Following the plea hearing, Castle expressed that while she appreciated Copeland's admission of guilt, she believes the tragedy could have been avoided. The military judge is expected to impose a formal sentence in accordance with the plea agreement.</p>