The serial killer whose murder spree terrorised New York City from 1976 to 1977 says he has been forgiven by Jesus. 

David Berkowitz has been behind bars since 1978, when he was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for each of the six women he murdered.  

He gained the nickname 'Son of Sam' because he claimed he was commanded to carry out the killings by his neighbour's demon-possessed dog.  

He referred to himself as 'Son of Sam' in rambling letters to the police during the year he was on the loose.  

He has been eligible for parole since 2002 but skipped his most recent meeting with the parole board at Sullivan Correctional Facility.  

In comments to Page Six, Berkowitz's lawyer, Mark J Heller revealed the serial killer was not interested in parole because he believes himself to be free in Jesus. 

The lawyer told the news website that although Berkowitz was raised a Jew, he has become a Christian while in prison and joined Jews for Jesus.  

He has also reportedly served as a minister's assistant at the correctional facility.

"David told me that the reason he has never sought freedom from the parole board by attending parole hearings is because 'Jesus has already freed my heart, soul and mind and has forgiven me'," Heller told Page Six.