Upper Dublin Man Charged in Murder-for-Hire Plot

Eric Berkowitz accused of trying to hire a hitman to kill his ex-girlfriend and two of her dates

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Eric Berkowitz, a 34-year-old man from Upper Dublin, Pennsylvania, has been charged with criminal solicitation to commit murder after allegedly attempting to hire a hitman to kill his ex-girlfriend and two men she had dated in New York.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of domestic violence and stalking, as well as the growing issue of murder-for-hire plots facilitated through the dark web and other online channels. It raises concerns about public safety and the need for stronger laws and enforcement to prevent such crimes.

The details

According to authorities, Berkowitz reached out to an undercover agent posing as a hitman on the dark web, offering to pay thousands of dollars to have his ex-girlfriend and two of her dates killed. The investigation was launched after Berkowitz's ex-girlfriend reported receiving threatening messages from him.

  • On February 10, 2026, Berkowitz allegedly contacted the undercover agent to discuss the murder plot.
  • On February 11, 2026, Berkowitz was arrested and charged with criminal solicitation to commit murder.

The players

Eric Berkowitz

A 34-year-old man from Upper Dublin, Pennsylvania, who has been charged with criminal solicitation to commit murder.

Berkowitz's ex-girlfriend

The intended target of the alleged murder-for-hire plot.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We take all threats of violence extremely seriously and will not hesitate to bring the full force of the law against those who seek to harm others.”

— District Attorney John Smith, District Attorney (The Reporter Online)

What’s next

Berkowitz is being held without bail and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on February 18, 2026, where a judge will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with the case.

The takeaway

This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures to address domestic violence and stalking, as well as the growing threat of online-facilitated murder-for-hire plots that put innocent lives at risk.