Ira Bernstein: The Shocking Murder-for-Hire Plot Revisited on Dateline

Ira Bernstein: A Decade-Long Saga of Betrayal and Deadly Intent

NEW CITY, NY – A chilling case that has gripped Rockland County for over a decade is taking center stage on NBC’s Dateline this week. The episode, titled “Take Two” and reported by Andrea Canning, airs Friday, March 13th at 9 p.m. ET. It delves into the disturbing story of Ira Bernstein, a wealthy podiatrist, and his girlfriend, Kelly Gribeluk, accused of conspiring to murder Bernstein’s wife, Susan Bernstein.

The Initial Plot and Arrest

The initial investigation began in 2016 when Ramapo police arrested Bernstein, alleging he’d attempted to hire a hitman to eliminate his wife. The plot unraveled when the would-be assassin alerted authorities, and crucial evidence was captured on hidden cameras, documenting what the network describes as a “deadly deal.” Both Bernstein and Gribeluk eventually pleaded guilty and were sentenced to prison terms.

Bernstein pleaded guilty in 2017 and received a sentence of five to fifteen years in state prison, ultimately being released in 2021. Gribeluk also entered a guilty plea and served time behind bars.

A Shocking New Chapter: The Second Attempt

However, the story didn’t end with their release. Dateline’s “Take Two” unveils a shocking new development: prosecutors allege that one of them attempted to revive the murder plot in 2022. This revelation adds a terrifying layer to an already complex case.

“Friday’s broadcast uncovers a shocking new chapter after their release, as one of them allegedly attempts to revive the murder plot once again,” NBC announced.

Inside the Episode: Interviews and Evidence

The Dateline episode promises a comprehensive look at the case, featuring interviews with both Ira Bernstein and Kelly Gribeluk, as well as the police detectives who painstakingly investigated the crimes and key witnesses. The Rockland County District Attorney’s office confirms that evidence points to two separate murder plots, years apart.

Recent Developments and Sentencing

Earlier this month, Ira Bernstein, now 51 and residing in Montebello, was sentenced to up to three years in state prison. However, this sentence wasn’t for attempted murder, but for tampering with physical evidence. He pleaded guilty last summer to attempting to conceal an audio recording that could have been used against him in the latest plot.

Prosecutors state that Bernstein’s efforts to suppress the audio recording were a direct attempt to obstruct justice and protect himself from prosecution.

Watch a preview of the Dateline episode HERE.