(Spirit Lake)– A judge today (Tuesday) sentenced Justice Berntson to a term in prison not to exceed 25 years in his role in the December, 2020 death of Angel Bastman at her home in Lake Park. He will receive credit for jail time already served and must serve 70 percent of his sentence before being eligible for parole or work release. Berntson was originally charged with 1st degree murder. He pled guilty in December of 2021 to a reduced charge of attempted murder as part of a plea deal. Two other counts of theft in the 2nd degree and conspiracy to commit a non-forcible felony were dismissed.
Berntson was also ordered to pay restitution for victim damages along with court costs, court appointed attorney fees, and $7,500 to the Crime Victim’s Compensation Fund.
Immediately prior to sentencing, Berntson gave a statement apologizing for his part in the matter, saying it “will stay with me the rest of my life”.
Several members of Bastman’s family gave victim impact statements as part of the proceedings. Angel’s mother, Tammy Bastman, said Berntson’s “intentions were clear when he arrived at Angel’s home”, adding Berntson “stole years from everyone who loved Angel.” An advocate speaking on behalf of David Bastman, Angel’s father, described Angel as a hero, and asked for prayers for Angel’s daughter, Aria. Sylvia Holland, Angel’s sister, who is getting married this year, said Berntson took her maid of honor; adding that trying to live without Angel is like “trying to breathe with one lung under water”. Holland said she also worries about her identity being stolen and that she will never accept any apologies from Berntson or forgive him.
A judge will announce her verdict in another suspect charged in Bastman’s death, Allison Decker, this (Tues.) afternoon. She was charged with Murder in the 1st degree, 2nd degree theft and conspiracy to commit a non-forcible felony. A bench trial for Decker was held in May.
