7: How Did Rex Heuermann Hide His Alleged Secret Life Of Murder?

The world of forensic science, especially in recent years, has played an instrumental role in solving the mysteries of unsolved cases. The Rex Heuermann case is a prime example of this, with DNA evidence under intense legal scrutiny.   In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski engaged an attorney and former Federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani in a deep dive into the significance of DNA evidence in the Rex Heuermann case. The point of contention? A buccal swab was initially denied, but the court subsequently mandated its submission.   Rahmani began by emphasizing the profound impact DNA evidence has on criminal cases. He shared, "The DNA's huge; it's everything. That's what really broke the case. Obviously, we know it was the vehicle and the roommates and that testimony, but the DNA puts him and really his wife's DNA at the scene of multiple murders." Rahmani suggests that the presence of DNA evidence in today's courtrooms offers an almost irrefutable testament to one's involvement in a crime, far from the days of the OJ Simpson case. He highlighted, "Jurors, they all know how reliable DNA evidence is and the fact that your DNA's there, you better have an explanation."   The implications of having DNA at the crime scene, especially across multiple murder locations, pose significant challenges for the defense. Rahmani says, "Whenever you have multiple victims in multiple scenes, it becomes tough." Moreover, the swabbing for DNA, in this case, isn't protected by the Fourth or Fifth Amendments. Rahmani continued, "You don't need a search warrant, you gotta give up that DNA. You even give a sample when you're arrested."   Given the gravity of DNA evidence, one has to wonder: what defense strategies can be possibly employed? Rahmani has seen various tactics over his career, from claims of evidence transfer and planting to direct attacks on the reliability of DNA evidence. However, he remarked on the overwhelming odds against the defense, stating, "whenever you're dealing with a one in a trillion chance that it's someone else's DNA. That's something that's just very tough to overcome from a defense perspective."   Brueski's probing led Rahmani to illuminate the daunting task before the defense attorney. With terabytes worth of information to sift through, including electronic evidence, cell phone data, emails, and controversial computer content, it's not just DNA that needs addressing. Rahmani commented, "There's just a lot for the defense attorney to go through."   Given the preponderance of evidence against Heuermann, and the grim realities faced by his defense team, many wonder if the case will even go to trial. Rahmani, though acknowledging the initial defense talks about the presumption of innocence, said he believes the case can't truly be defended on its merits.   Rahmani also touched on the rarity of dealing with a serial killer in the modern age, noting, "We haven't had a serial killer in quite some time." He hinted at the complexities surrounding the Brooklyn DA's handling of the case, suggesting that given Heuermann's age and the severe nature of his alleged crimes, a plea deal seems unlikely. Rahmani ended with a candid observation, "This is a life case. There's gonna be no deal in this case... I can see this being one of those cases... we're gonna go through the motions of a trial, but I think the result gonna be inevitable."   In this convoluted legal battleground, the Rex Heuermann case offers a poignant testament to the power of DNA evidence and the monumental challenges faced by the defense in an era where science can unveil unsettling truths. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

14 Elo 20235min

Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.  Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.     Want to listen to ALL our Podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Long Island Serial Killer, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

13 Elo 20237min

Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.  Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.     Want to listen to ALL our Podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Long Island Serial Killer, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

12 Elo 20237min

Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.     This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.     Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.     Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. Want to listen to ALL our Podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Long Island Serial Killer, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

12 Elo 20239min

Rex Heuermann, whose name has gripped headlines recently, became the central topic of discussion on the popular podcast "Hidden Killers" by Tony Brueski. In the latest episode, Brueski sits down with former felony prosecutor and attorney, Eric Faddis, to dissect the intricacies and challenges surrounding the Heuermann case.   As many know, one of the most shocking revelations in the Heuermann case came when the FBI discovered allegations of child porn and extreme pornography on his computer. Brueski broached the topic candidly, questioning, "Will that be through the trial for the murders or is that a whole separate charge?"   Faddis responded, shedding light on the complications arising in such cases. He suggested the defense may argue for a bifurcation, separating charges related to the alleged child porn from the murder allegations. "I think his defense is gonna say, Hey, look, it's too inflammatory, it's too prejudicial," Faddis remarked. Given the complexity, Faddis even entertained the possibility of a judge siding with Heuermann on the issue, noting, "judges don't wanna get reversed" by introducing possibly prejudicial evidence not directly tied to the current charges.   On potential defense strategies, Faddis speculated about the likelihood of Heuermann claiming an alibi through consensual encounters with one sex worker and distancing himself from the other allegations. “Is there some kind of defense whereby Rex Herman says... for everyone else, you’ve got the wrong person and you can't prove it was me?” While the strategy remains speculative, the rapid unfolding of evidence could significantly narrow down Heuermann's defense options.   Given the time lapse between some of the alleged crimes and Heuermann's arrest, Brueski asked a pertinent question on the impact of the age of evidence on its admissibility. Faddis acknowledged the challenges, especially in cold cases. "What happens is sometimes witnesses disappear or die, or evidence erodes or its quality… it’s no longer testable," he explained.   The podcast also touched upon the potential issues surrounding witnesses. Brueski pointed out the complexities of getting sex workers to testify, especially if these events occurred years ago, implying the potential risk they might take in revealing their pasts. Faddis echoed this sentiment, observing a "code of silence" prevalent in some illicit industries. However, the notoriety of the case might urge some to come forward.   Another compelling discussion segment pivoted around the disturbing material on Heuermann's computer. Brueski questioned its role in the case and whether it would provide a comprehensive profile of Heuermann's psyche. While this material is a crime in and of itself, its direct correlation with the murder charges remains to be determined.   Faddis concluded by commenting on the multi-jurisdictional nature of the investigation, with various agencies involved. Drawing from his experiences as a prosecutor, he highlighted potential challenges stemming from communication gaps between agencies. Such shortcomings could offer the defense avenues to challenge the prosecution's case.   In sum, the discussion on "Hidden Killers" illuminated the layered complexities surrounding the Rex Heuermann case. With allegations ranging from heinous cybercrimes to murder, and the potential challenges in evidence presentation and witness testimony, the road to justice promises to be a riveting journey filled with legal twists and turns. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

11 Elo 20237min

In a riveting episode of the popular "Hidden Killers" podcast hosted by Tony Brueski, former Felony Prosecutor and attorney Eric Faddis detailed the intricate intricacies surrounding the Rex Heuerman case, revealing a labyrinthine web of evidence, multiple jurisdictions, and daunting legal challenges.   "Multiple states, multiple victims," Brueski began, highlighting the daunting scope of the case against Heuerman. As it stands, the ongoing investigation involves not only different states but also entails navigating the legal terrain of different jurisdictions, each with its own set of laws. Such complexity, Faddis mentioned, makes it exceedingly challenging to form a coherent defense strategy. "Trying to synthesize all of that into something that is digestible... is a monstrous undertake," he stated.   The discussion moved on to address the scale of the case. Typically, a murder case involves one victim in a single jurisdiction. In contrast, the case against Heuerman features multiple victims. "As of right now, as of this recording, it is three. It's likely going to increase if the evidence that we've been hearing about turns out to come to fruition," Faddis pointed out.   The enormity of the case, Brueski and Faddis concurred, could result in significant delays. Faddis reasoned that the defense would need ample time to process the colossal amount of information and evidence. Moreover, prolonging the case might work in the defense's favor, especially if they are addressing cold cases from years or decades past.   Faddis remarked, "I totally see the defense really drawing this out and I don't think these cases are going away anytime soon." Brueski added, it's not just a tactic to stall but a practical necessity, emphasizing, "we are human beings and we have to get through this information."   The conversation took a turn to the DNA evidence linking Heuerman to the crime scenes. Currently, the most damning piece of evidence is the two hairs found - one each from Heuerman and his wife, present on a burlap sack. These hair samples yielded mitochondrial DNA matches. Faddis noted the importance of this discovery, "It ties him directly to at least one of these victims... he can't play the 'it wasn't me' defense."   However, as much as DNA is pivotal, it also becomes a focal point for defense strategies. Faddis speculated on potential defense narratives, suggesting they might argue that Heuerman frequented sex workers, attempting to present the DNA as a result of a consensual interaction. Yet, Faddis swiftly dismissed this theory as improbable, stressing, "He is not going to be able to remove himself from all of these deaths because his DNA inextricably links him to at least one of those deaths."   Brueski echoed Faddis's sentiments, emphasizing that such a defense would be hard to maintain given the gravity of the evidence against Heuerman. The DNA and the disturbing materials found in his possession make a consensual interaction defense almost untenable.   In conclusion, Faddis confidently stated, "The defense of 'oh no, I just like to see prostitutes here and there' is not going to get any traction based on what we know so far."   The episode leaves listeners grappling with the complexities and depth of the case against Rex Heuerman, highlighting the colossal task ahead for the defense and prosecution. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

10 Elo 20234min

In the most recent episode of the acclaimed podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski discussed the harrowing case of Rex Erman, a man suspected of being a serial killer, with retired FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer. The duo dissected the clues and potential evidence found at the suspect's home following an exhaustive 12-day investigation by law enforcement.   Coffindaffer initially reflected on the scale and duration of the evidence recovery process, noting that it was unusually extensive for a residence of its size. "That house was not that large, and it just told me there was so much information for them to collect. For them to catalog and properly handle that, it took that extensive amount of time," Coffindaffer explained. She anticipates the emergence of a "huge amount of information dating back, possibly even to childhood," shedding light on Erman's past and potentially his criminal trajectory.   Brueski conjectured that Erman was a hoarder, basing this on visual evidence such as the immense volume of items inside the house and the 200-plus guns reportedly found. The sheer abundance of clutter and the disordered state of the house might have contributed to the protracted nature of the FBI raid. Brueski drew parallels with serial killers such as Dennis Rader, known for keeping trophies from his victims, which raises the likelihood of Erman having kept similar mementos.   Coffindaffer agreed, sharing her interest in the seemingly incongruous items taken from the house, including a doll. "I found it very interesting. They took that doll. It always made me wonder if that doll wasn't dressed in something that would've been a trophy, possibly from one of his victims." In her expert opinion, the FBI wouldn't have taken any item they didn't deem crucial to the investigation.   Another unsettling detail pertained to the animal cages found at the property. Coffindaffer speculated on the chilling possibility that these could have been used to keep victims alive, pointing out that this tactic is not uncommon among serial killers. "I wonder how long he had those women possibly alive in that house, and if indeed they're going to be able to show that is where they were murdered," she contemplated.   Brueski and Coffindaffer discussed the doll's significance, the placement of which might have influenced the FBI's decision to seize it as evidence. Coffindaffer suggested that Erman may have maintained a private area within the house for his illicit activities. This, she hypothesized, could explain why his family remained unaware of his actions, as he likely had "total and absolute control" over the house.   In a chilling conjecture, Brueski speculated on the possibility that the doll may bear physical evidence from the victims, such as hair. Coffindaffer concurred, noting, "Any part or piece from the victim... any amount of clothing. And then I could also see. That doll being used as in his fantasy." She affirmed the gravity of the situation, saying, "It's those sort of absolutely gory, creepy details that I think all of us are just wondering what really happened behind those closed doors." Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

9 Elo 20237min

In a recent episode of the popular podcast "Hidden Killers," with host Tony Brueski, the case of Rex Heuermann, a man embroiled in horrific controversy, was discussed with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott.   The episode began with Heuermann's wife's request for privacy following her filing for divorce, as quoted by Scott, "On behalf of my family and especially my elderly neighbors, who have also had their lives turned upside down by the enormous police presence, I'm pleading with you all to give us space so that we may regain some normalcy in our neighborhood." Brueski opined that, although the plea might fall on deaf ears, it was important to empathize with the family's situation.   Delving deeper, Scott broached the subject of the psychological impact on Heuermann's family, stating that "It's gotta just be absolutely earth-shattering for the family. And everybody is continuing to conjecture that they must have known something. And very often in these cases, the families don't, they just don't know about the hidden life."   Discussing the societal aspects, Brueski and Scott delved into the acceptance of violence against society's 'undesirables,' such as sex workers, homeless people, or drug addicts. Scott said, "We definitely have a class system in this country. As much as we don't like to acknowledge that, I think, that people who are white, who are from a middle or upper-class environment are valued more."   Brueski suggested that if Heuermann's victims had been middle-aged, middle-class housewives, he might have been discovered sooner, suggesting that society's perceptions and attitudes need serious reflection.   Turning to the topic of vigilance in recognizing abnormal behavior in our vicinity, Brueski pondered, "It makes me wonder how many more people can take a look around them and go, maybe this should be looked into a little bit more because there is some weird behavior that I'm seeing around me." Scott agreed, suggesting we must pay more attention to our surroundings and the people within them.   Yet, when respecting people's privacy, Scott and Brueski agreed that while vigilance is necessary, it should not infringe on people's rights.   Speaking about the behavior of Heuermann's family, Brueski noted the seeming contradiction of the family's request for privacy while also appearing frequently in the view of the cameras outside their home. He questioned whether this behavior was part of their healing process or an unconscious attempt to communicate normalcy amidst the turmoil.   Scott expressed uncertainty about this behavior but suggested it could be a benign attempt to project normalcy in extraordinary circumstances, stating, "It may be something as benign as they just want to show, 'Hey, we're normal. Here we are going about our day, we are normal.'"   The conversation provided a compelling examination of the Heuermann case from a psychological, sociological, and familial perspective. It underscored the need for a collective reevaluation of societal values and a heightened awareness of our surroundings while respecting individual rights and privacy. The discussion concluded with the recognition that the case's intense scrutiny would likely continue for some time, promising more insights and discussions in future episodes. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

9 Elo 20237min