ROCKLIN, Calif. – Damon Allen Benson has been sentenced to 71 years in prison in Placer County after being found guilty of a disturbing murder and torture case.
Benson, known as the “Tinder killer” in local media, was convicted of murder, aggravated mayhem, torture, felony criminal threats, and false imprisonment by violence. His actions were described by authorities as a “horrific love triangle murder plot” that played out in the summer of 2021 on the outskirts of Sacramento.
The events unfolded after Benson met a 29-year-old woman on the dating app Tinder, whom he then held against her will and tortured at his apartment in Rancho Cordova. The victim, who is of Jewish descent, was subjected to horrific acts of violence, including being tied to the ceiling and having a swastika carved into her back.
Authorities say Benson’s motive was fueled by jealousy, as he tortured the victim to force her to reveal the address of another man she had met through Tinder. Benson later ambushed this man, 48-year-old Cameron Gabriel, and shot him dead, claiming it was in self-defense. However, surveillance footage presented during the trial led the jury to conclude that Benson murdered Gabriel with premeditation and intent.
Cameron Gabriel, who was born in Stanford, Calif., was described as gentle, kind, and funny. His tragic death has deeply impacted his family and friends.
In a statement, Placer County Supervising Deputy District Attorney Jeffery Moore said, “We recognize this verdict will not bring [the victim] back and that we cannot undo what this defendant has done to their family. We are humbled to provide justice for this horrific crime to the greatest extent our laws allow.”
This case serves as a reminder of the brutal and senseless acts that can result from jealousy and violence. The sentencing of Damon Allen Benson to 71 years in prison represents a measure of justice for the victims and their families.