A Navy sailor confessed on Monday to strangling fellow sailor Angelina Resendiz, providing her family some closure while reigniting questions about missed interventions by military leaders. Esmi Castle, the mother of the 21-year-old victim, expressed relief in hearing the truth about her daughter’s death in court.
Jeremiah Copeland admitted guilt in a general court-martial for the unpremeditated murder of Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Angelina Resendiz. He also pleaded guilty to making a false official statement, aggravated assault on a second individual, and indecent recording related to a third victim, according to USNI News.
During the court proceedings, Copeland recounted the events of May 29, 2025, when Resendiz visited his barracks room. They drank alcohol and kissed before a dispute arose over something she noticed on his phone. Copeland confessed to strangling Resendiz to prevent her from drawing attention from other sailors.
The plea agreement requires Copeland to serve a minimum of 40 years in prison and face dishonorable discharge as well as rank reduction. He must also register as a sex offender, as reported by USNI News. Castle acknowledged that Copeland’s admission brought some ‘peace of mind’ but believes military leadership failed by not addressing earlier allegations involving Copeland.
Castle pointed out that multiple incidents with other women should have enforced stronger actions against Copeland. Court records and earlier reports mention his history with other women, although not all accusations led to guilty pleas. Castle emphasized this history when stating, “There were four other women before Angie.”
Resendiz was dedicated to her Navy career as a culinary specialist, aspiring to join the Navy’s elite culinary competition team and cook for world leaders. Her mother highlighted her ambitions for military advancement and promotions.
Since Angelina’s tragic death, Castle has emerged as an advocate for victims of military sexual violence. She seeks avenues for survivors to bring claims in civilian courts, arguing that military justice often leaves them without sufficient options.
Castle traveled to Washington, D.C., with advocacy groups and military families, aiming for reforms addressing sexual violence and accountability in the armed forces. She met other service members’ families from different branches and recognized the broader scope of the problem.
Despite her criticisms of the system, Castle bears no ill will toward Copeland. Following the court proceedings, she even spoke with him, thanking him for his honesty. Castle also met his mother and grandmother, acknowledging their shared loss.
Castle hopes that Copeland can use his time in prison to make better choices, expressing a wish for his transformation over anger.