A chilling request echoes through an Arizona courtroom: the man accused of a horrific crime, the crucifixion of a pastor, is demanding the ultimate punishment – his own execution. Adam Sheafe, representing himself, insists the death penalty is the only path to closure for all involved, a desperate plea to end a legal process he deems agonizingly slow.
The case centers around the brutal death of William Schonemann, the 76-year-old pastor of New River Bible Chapel. Authorities discovered Schonemann’s body in April 2025, his arms outstretched, hands pinned to a wall – a scene deliberately staged to evoke a horrifying image of crucifixion. A crown of thorns completed the macabre tableau.
Sheafe, 51, has never denied his involvement. From the outset, he confessed fully, detailing his motives and accepting responsibility for the unspeakable act. He argues that the protracted legal battle is inflicting further pain on the victim’s family, his own family, and even himself.
“These are the reasons why I did this, and I’m not contesting anything,” Sheafe stated in court. He lamented the delay, pointing out that his right to a speedy trial has stretched from a promised five months to over two and a half years. His repeated calls for immediate execution stem from a desire to finally allow everyone to begin healing.
This isn’t a recent development. A year ago, Sheafe made a similar, startling request: “Put me on death row, set the execution date for right now.” He claimed the victims, their families, and even taxpayers would benefit from a swift resolution.
The motive behind the gruesome act, according to Sheafe, was a self-proclaimed mission he termed “Operation First Commandment.” He believed Schonemann, and other Christian leaders, were leading their followers astray, and his actions were intended to correct what he perceived as a dangerous falsehood.
Sheafe’s obsession with religious texts runs deep. His father revealed that Adam became intensely focused on the Old Testament, immersing himself in its stories and interpretations. This devotion is visibly marked by a large tattoo on his neck – the Hebrew word for God, a declaration of his allegiance.
Despite the severity of the crime, Sheafe maintains his mental clarity, insisting he is fully capable of understanding the consequences of his actions. Initial attempts to plead “no contest” were rejected by the prosecution, prompting him to offer a guilty plea, which is still under review by the court to ensure its validity.
He reiterated his unwavering acceptance of responsibility, emphasizing the undeniable facts of the case: the victim’s age and the heinous nature of the crime. “I intended it to be heinous,” he stated, arguing that there are no mitigating circumstances to warrant further delay. He has already provided a full confession to the FBI and openly admitted his guilt to numerous media outlets.
The court now faces the difficult task of navigating Sheafe’s unusual request while ensuring a just and thorough legal process, a process he desperately wants to bypass in the name of closure.
