36: Daughter of 'Happy Face Killer' Starts GoFundMe to Help Gilgo Beach Suspect's Family 'Start a New Life'

Attorney John Ray has called for a closer examination of the movements of Asa Ellerup, the wife of accused serial killer Rex Heuermann, in light of new evidence that appears to contradict her alibi. This development comes as Heuermann faces charges in connection with the murders of several women, including Maureen Brainard-Barnes.    Brainard-Barnes, a sex worker, went missing in July 2007, and her body was found in December 2010 on a Long Island beach, alongside the remains of three other women - Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Lynn Costello - all of whom Heuermann is accused of murdering.    Previously, District Attorney Ray Tierney's office had asserted that travel and cell phone records indicated that Ellerup and her children were out of state when these women disappeared, establishing their alibi.    However, during a symposium at St. John University, attorney John Ray presented new evidence challenging this claim. He questioned the use of the phrase "on or about" in court documents, suggesting that the actual timeline of Ellerup's whereabouts may differ from what was previously assumed.    Ray claimed to have received information indicating that Ellerup and her children may have checked into their Atlantic City hotel later than originally reported, potentially altering the timeline of their movements.    The bank statement, cited in the court documents, highlighted a transaction for the Flagship Hotel on July 14, 2007, with an arrival date listed as July 7, 2007 - just two days before Brainard-Barnes disappeared. However, the manager of the hotel allegedly stated that Ellerup checked in on July 17.    John Ray emphasized the significance of these discrepancies, stating, "If those records are correct, then the District Attorney is not right, and Asa Ellerup was not away on July 7, July 8, July 9, July 10," raising questions about her alibi.    Notably, hairs belonging to Ellerup and her children were found near the victims' remains, prompting Ray to call for a renewed focus on the family's potential involvement.    In response to these claims, Victoria Heuermann's attorney, Vess Mitev, criticized Ray's remarks as "unhinged" and "conclusively disproved by factual evidence." He suggested that Ray's statements were an attempt to gain attention.    District Attorney Ray Tierney's office declined to comment on the new evidence, and Asa Ellerup's attorney, Bob Macedonio, has not yet responded to these allegations.    Rex Heuermann, whose DNA was linked to the murders of the Gilgo Four, is under investigation in connection with various cold cases across the country. John Ray has consistently called for Asa Ellerup to be investigated as a potential accomplice in his alleged crimes.    Despite these developments, Heuermann's wife maintains her innocence and has denied any involvement in the murders. She has expressed shock and disorientation following her husband's arrest. However, tipsters have alleged that she was aware of Heuermann's activities and even participated in non-violent sexual encounters with him.    As the investigation into Rex Heuermann expands beyond Suffolk County, questions surrounding the alibis of those close to him continue to arise. The complex case leaves many unresolved questions and underscores the need for further examination. John Ray continues to call for the involvement of federal agencies to ensure a comprehensive investigation. 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, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

1 Helmi 202411min

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 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, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, 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

28 Tammi 20247min

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 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, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, 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

28 Tammi 20248min

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 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, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, 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

27 Tammi 20248min

In the latest episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski, a new development in the Long Island serial killer case is dissected with the insight of psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott. The discussion revolves around Rex Heuermann, charged with a fourth murder, and his wife, Asa Ellerup's repeated alibi of being 'out of town' during his alleged crimes. This case, shrouded in horror and mystery, raises many questions: How much did Asa know, and how is her alibi standing up to scrutiny?    Maureen Brainard Barnes, a 25-year-old mother of two and the fourth victim attributed to Rex Heuermann, has brought renewed attention to this case. "I hope this continues to move forward, and I hope that this is helpful to families," remarks Scott, emphasizing the importance of closure for the victims' families. The prosecution's intention to investigate six other potential bodies adds to the gravity of the situation.    A crucial piece of evidence against Heuermann is the DNA found on the victims – not his, but Asa Ellerup's and their daughter's. While the discovery is horrifying, Scott and Brueski discuss the possibility of these findings being attributed to the hoarder-like conditions of the Heuermann household. Scott notes, "It's absolutely devastating for people... to carry half your parents' DNA," underlining the psychological impact on Heuermann's family, especially his children.    The continuous alibi of Asa Ellerup being 'out of town' during the occurrences of these heinous crimes raises eyebrows. Although she managed to provide a bank statement as proof, the regularity of this alibi seems too convenient. Scott contemplates the possibility of Rex planning his activities around Asa's absence, hinting at a deeper, more complex relationship dynamic. "It's horrifying to think that somebody could be aware that something like this was happening and continue to live with the person," she adds, highlighting the grim reality of Asa's potential knowledge of Rex's activities.    The discussion also touches upon the psychological aspects of being married to someone as pathological as Rex Heuermann. Scott suggests that Asa might have been so disempowered and dependent, both economically and emotionally, that she saw no alternative for herself. "There are people who, because of various dependencies, feel so disempowered that they just didn't see an alternative for themselves," Scott explains.    As the case unfolds, the speculation around Asa Ellerup's knowledge and involvement, albeit indirect, in her husband's alleged crimes remains a topic of intense debate. Brueski notes the difficulty in admitting to being aware of a spouse's deviant behaviors, especially when such heinous crimes are attached. Scott agrees, "It's hard for most of us to imagine what that would be like."    As the case against Rex Heuermann continues, the questions around Asa's alibi and her knowledge of her husband's activities remain unanswered. The investigation's progress and the prosecution's ability to connect more victims to Heuermann will be crucial in unraveling the depth of this case. As Scott poignantly remarks, "Female victims of extremely pathological men can be continually terrified... because that fear lives on in their mind." The Long Island serial killer case, with its complex web of relationships and hidden truths, continues to hold the public's attention, leaving many to wonder what revelations lie ahead. 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, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

26 Tammi 20247min

As the legal saga of Alex Murdaugh unfolds, the potential for a second murder trial looms, raising critical questions about the integrity of the judicial process and the role of court officials. Tony Brueski, the host of "Hidden Killers," recently engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with Eric Faddis, a former felony prosecutor, exploring the intricate details and implications of the case.    The focal point of this legal maelstrom is Becky Hill, the former clerk of court, whose alleged misconduct could pave the way for Murdaugh's retrial. The allegations against Hill, including jury tampering and other ethical breaches, have cast a shadow of doubt over the verdict of the first trial. The upcoming evidentiary hearing, set to scrutinize Hill's interactions with the jury, promises to be a pivotal moment in determining the future course of this high-profile case.    Faddis, shedding light on the legal intricacies, explains that Murdaugh's team must demonstrate substantial prejudice resulting from the alleged jury tampering. The burden of proof rests on establishing that Hill's actions significantly impacted the trial's outcome. According to Faddis, “Usually, someone in Murdaugh's position would have to prove that but for the jury tampering, there would have been a different outcome.”    The strength of the evidence for Murdaugh's claim is a subject of considerable debate. Faddis anticipates testimony from a juror alleging direct influence by Hill. If corroborated under oath, this evidence could gravely undermine the prosecution's case, potentially leading to a new trial. "If that juror gets up there and says that under oath, I think that is a big problem for the prosecution," Faddis asserts.    Interestingly, the judge presiding over the hearing has made it clear that the focus is solely on the issue of jury tampering. While Hill's alleged misconduct in her official capacity and personal affairs is indeed troubling, these issues are peripheral to the central question at hand. However, Faddis points out that these aspects could still influence the hearing due to their relevance to Hill's credibility.    The legal implications of this case extend far beyond the fate of Alex Murdaugh. It highlights the critical importance of maintaining ethical standards and impartiality within the judicial system. The allegations against Hill, if proven true, not only question the legitimacy of the Murdaugh trial but also expose vulnerabilities in the legal process that demand urgent attention.    As the legal community and the public await the outcome of the evidentiary hearing, the case stands as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between justice and the human element in legal proceedings. The decision rendered will not only determine the possibility of a second trial for Murdaugh but also set a precedent for handling similar allegations of judicial misconduct in the future.    In conclusion, the Murdaugh case, with its twists and turns, serves as a complex tapestry of legal, ethical, and human dilemmas. The upcoming hearing is more than just a procedural step; it is a litmus test for the integrity of the legal system. As Faddis aptly notes, the judge's ability to steer this complicated case will be crucial in shaping its outcome. The question remains: Will justice prevail in the face of adversity, or will the shadows of doubt continue to loom over this controversial case? 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, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

23 Tammi 20245min

In the shadow of the chilling Long Island serial killer case, a perplexing question looms: How much did Asa Ellerup, wife of the accused killer Rex Heuermann, really know? "Hidden Killers," a podcast hosted by Tony Brueski, brings former FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer to the forefront of this conversation, unraveling the nuances of Ellerup's alibi and her potential awareness of her husband's alleged crimes.    The discussion revolves around Ellerup's repeated alibi of being 'out of town' during the murders. Coffindaffer acknowledges that, in 2007, proving one's whereabouts could be challenging for an average person, but Ellerup managed to produce a bank statement as proof. The statement indicates her presence at Atlantic City, New Jersey, during the time of one of the murders. Coffindaffer expresses, "While the bank statement does provide some clarity, it's the circumstantial details around these trips that raise eyebrows."    The conversation then delves into the dynamic of the Heuermann household. Coffindaffer points out the peculiar timing of Rex joining Asa and their children during the trip, hinting at a possible premeditated plan for his alleged criminal activities. "It's interesting to speculate what Rex told Asa about joining the trip later. It raises questions about the nature of their relationship and what Asa might have known," Coffindaffer remarks.    Further complicating the situation is the discovery of Asa's hair on multiple victims. While this could be attributed to the disorderly state of the Heuermann household, it nonetheless casts a shadow of doubt. Coffindaffer reflects, "The hoarder-like conditions of their home make it plausible for hair transfer, but it's the pattern of these findings that can't be overlooked."    The podcast also explores the role of recent witnesses who have come forward, alleging Asa's involvement in activities that could have given her some level of awareness about her husband's disturbing behaviors. "These new testimonies need thorough investigation. They could either be fabrications or crucial pieces of the puzzle," Coffindaffer states.    Brueski questions the lack of in-depth questioning directed at Asa Ellerup by law enforcement, given the gravity of her husband's charges. Coffindaffer suggests that while Ellerup may have been cooperative, the level of detail in the case implies more interaction with her than publicly disclosed. "The contradiction in statements about her cooperation is puzzling. The police might have more insights than what's been shared," she adds.    The dialogue also touches upon the potential involvement of law enforcement in the couple's alleged activities. With past corruption within the police force and allegations of officers' participation in sex parties at the Heuermann home, the case takes on an even more complex dimension.    As the podcast wraps up, Coffindaffer and Brueski contemplate the possibility that Asa might have known about her husband's predilection for sex workers, if not the murders. "In a relationship marred by secrets and unhealthy dynamics, it's plausible that Asa was aware of certain aspects of Rex's life, though not necessarily the extent of his alleged criminal activities," Coffindaffer concludes.    The case against Rex Heuermann continues to unravel, with each revelation bringing more questions than answers. Asa Ellerup remains a figure shrouded in mystery, her exact role and knowledge still a topic of intense debate. As the investigation proceeds, the world watches, waiting to see if the truth will surface in this tangled web of deceit, betrayal, and murder. 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, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

23 Tammi 20249min

Is the case of the Long Island serial killer far more complex than we initially thought? The recent charges against Rex Heuermann for the murder of Maureen Brainard-Barnes raise this question. Heuermann, already accused of three murders, now faces charges for a fourth, shedding new light on a case that has long puzzled investigators. Tony Brueski, host of "Hidden Killers," delves into these developments with Robin Dreeke, a retired FBI Special Agent.    Dreeke expressed excitement, not at the charges, but at the detailed investigative work behind them. "The immense, intense amount of fantastic investigative work... is pretty incredible," he shared. The prosecution's case hinges on mitochondrial DNA evidence linking Heuermann to the victims, bolstered by independent verification from two separate labs.    The conversation then shifted to Heuermann's other properties, including a hunting property in a rural area and frequent trips to Vegas. These locations raise the possibility of more victims, given the time lapses between known ones. "The odds of him just doing this for a little while and then taking a break... it's not all that super common," Brueski noted.    Delving into Heuermann's disturbing online activities, Dreeke pointed out his searches for deviant and abhorrent pornography, including child porn. "If they actually were able to recover any of that, that's going to be an additional gotcha charge," Dreeke added. This evidence could further solidify the prosecution's case, painting a continuous arc of Heuermann's deviant behavior.    The focus then turned to Asa Ellerup, Heuermann's wife, and her potential knowledge of his activities. Brueski raised questions about Ellerup's repeated absences during Heuermann's alleged crimes and whether these absences were too convenient. "I'm not saying murder, but I'm just wondering how all convenient it's been every single time one of these charges has been brought up," he pondered.    Dreeke speculated on Ellerup's possible desensitization to her husband's behavior, given their long relationship and her exposure to his deviant lifestyle. This desensitization could explain her lack of suspicion, even when faced with his increasingly aberrant behavior. "The more we're exposed to something, the more comfort we have with that behavior," Dreeke explained.    The discussion also touched on allegations against Ellerup involving her participation in deviant sexual activities, further questioning her awareness of her husband's actions. "Maybe she added, 'I know he's going to do these horrendous things... part of our arrangement is I'm going to leave town,'" Dreeke hypothesized.    In a case as complex and twisted as the Long Island serial killer, the lines between victim and accomplice blur, leaving us to ponder: At what point does one's exposure to deviance erode their moral compass? As the investigation continues to unfold, we are left to grapple with the possibility of a broader web of complicity and deception, one that extends beyond the actions of a lone serial killer. 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, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

23 Tammi 20246min