Hopkins man convicted of brutal murder of ex-girlfriend

HOPKINS, Minn. (FOX 9) – A Hopkins man was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison Friday for the murder of his ex-girlfriend, days after being released from prison on assault charges.

Conviction

Matthew Brenneman, 40, was sentenced to 285 months (23.75 years) in prison, with 411 days credit, for killing Danicka Bergson in her apartment in July 2023.

“I just wish we weren't here and this wasn't happening. Unfortunately, we are where we are. I want to apologize to the Bergeson family,” Brenneman said before the verdict was announced.

He was charged with second-degree murder despite committing a serious crime and second-degree murder while under a restraining order. He was later charged with first-degree murder despite committing domestic violence despite having committed domestic violence multiple times in the past.

Brenneman pleaded guilty to first-degree murder despite committing a crime in exchange for the charges against him being dropped.

Brenneman received a reduced sentence for second-degree murder. If convicted of first-degree murder, which he was charged with, he faces life in prison.

The crime

Bergeson was found in her bed in her apartment on July 8, 2023. According to the indictment, she was wrapped in several blankets and a plastic garbage bag. There were also signs of decomposition, which led officials to believe she had been dead for at least a day.

The Hennepin County coroner could not determine the cause of death, but Bergeson had abrasions and bruises on his body.

Prosecutors say they have a phone recording of Brenneman from prison in which he discusses the possibility that Bergeson's death was a “crime of passion.”

Abuse in the past

Court records document a history of threatening behavior and physical abuse, including hitting, biting, choking and death threats. Bergeson required medical attention for her injuries. She has previously been charged with assault and spent time in jail.

The Hennepin County District Attorney's Office had previously noted that at the time of Bergeson's death, Brennerman had two domestic violence cases pending against him. He had pleaded guilty to both counts.

He was released from prison on June 27. According to the indictment, phone records placed him near her home two days later. Family members became concerned and her body was eventually found less than two weeks after he was released from prison.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or Visit the hotline website to chat with an expert.