Navy Sailor Pleads Guilty to Killing 21-Year-Old Angelina Resendiz, Facing at Least 40 Years
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 9
Navy Sailor Pleads Guilty to Killing 21-Year-Old Angelina Resendiz, Facing at Least 40 Years
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 9
Summary
Jeremiah Copeland admitted at a general court-martial that he strangled 21-year-old sailor Angelina Resendiz in his barracks room on May 29, 2025, after she became upset while the two were together.
The guilty plea also covers making a false official statement, aggravated assault against a second victim and indecent recording involving a third victim; under the deal, he faces at least 40 years, a dishonorable discharge and sex-offender registration.
Copeland’s admission answered how Resendiz died after her body was found in a wooded area near Naval Station Norfolk in June 2025 and the medical examiner had listed the cause as undetermined.
Resendiz’s mother, Esmi Castle, said the plea brought "peace of mind" but argued Navy leaders missed earlier chances to stop Copeland, citing allegations involving four other women.
Castle has since joined other military families and advocates in Washington to push reforms, including giving service members a path to pursue sexual-violence claims in civilian courts.