Matthew Scott Brenneman sentenced to 285 months for murder of Danicka Bergeson

The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office today secured a sentence against Matthew Scott Brenneman, 40, for killing Danicka Bergeson in a domestic violence-related homicide.

Brenneman pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while under a restraining order. The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office pursued a heavier sentence than prescribed by Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines due to aggravating factors in the case.

Brenneman was sentenced today to 285 months (23 ¾ years) with 411 days of credit for time served. He killed Ms. Bergeson in July 2023.

“All of our thoughts are with Danicka’s family today,” Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said. “We will continue prosecuting those who commit intimate partner violence, knowing that while seeking justice is essential, nothing can return what is taken from devastated families.”

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), more than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience intimate partner physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking in their lifetime. These figures may be underreported for numerous reasons including distrust of the system, fear of being judged, isolation, and being financially dependent upon an abuser.

“We all deserve to feel safe in our homes,” Moriarty said. “Violence in the home can have devastating and long-lasting consequences. It can lead to continuing cycles of violence as people who commit violence are often exposed to it as they grow up and cause victims great harm and even loss of life. We need to keep speaking out about the harmful impact of domestic violence.”

If you or a loved one is dealing with intimate partner violence, please contact or visit the Domestic Abuse Service Center | Hennepin County (hennepinattorney.org) Outside of business hours, victims can get support and safety resources from Day One by calling 1-866-223-1111 or texting (612) 399-9995.

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