17: Did Rex Heuermann Abuse His Family?

On the latest episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski and forensic psychologist Kate Wallinga delve deeper into the mind and environment of alleged Long Island serial killer, Rex Heuermann, providing a perspective that humanizes the individuals inadvertently trapped in the life of a supposed murderer.

Wallinga suggests that while it's easy to assume that Heuermann's family was abused or manipulated, it's crucial to distinguish between abuse and family culture. Drawing on her personal experiences, she shares that issues or problems within a family may remain unspoken for generations, creating a culture of silence that can prevent family members from recognizing troubling signs in the case of Heuermann, his wife's swift decision to file for divorce after his arrest suggests a similar family culture, where unusual behaviors were overlooked or normalized.

The topic of family culture is particularly resonant for Wallinga, who reveals that she severed ties with her clinically narcissistic mother only after she reached the age of 40. The toxicity in their relationship was normalized to the point where it was considered just "her being her." As such, the seemingly 'normal' behavior within families can often hide damaging actions or attitudes, further complicating the detection of potential criminal behaviors.

Speaking of the overall case, Wallinga shared her insights into why the murders remained unsolved for so long. She believes that the sex work aspect of the victims played a significant role in the delayed resolution. Moreover, the challenges in obtaining timely DNA results, especially in the past, contributed to the extended investigation period. This delay, coupled with the alleged killer's choice of victims less likely to attract immediate attention, helped maintain his anonymity for a prolonged period.

When discussing potential systematic failures, Wallinga acknowledges the possibility of other victims in different states based on Heuermann's travel history and potential mimicry of infamous serial killer Israel Keyes's approach. Keyes was known for his strategy of continuously changing his methods and targeting victims that would not draw much attention.

By exploring the intricate dynamics within Rex Heuermann's family and the broader systematic issues at play, Brueski and Wallinga's discussion highlights the complex layers behind a serial killer case. The podcast reminds listeners of the pervasive blindness within families and communities and underscores the importance of vigilance in spotting the abnormal within what seems to be 'normal.' Their discussion reminds us that understanding and acknowledging these hidden killers is the first step in ensuring justice for the victims and their families.
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