37: Will Rex Heuermann's Child Porn Charges Be A Separate Trial

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.
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