Will Rex Heuermann's New Found 'Religion' Help His Case?
In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski sat down with psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott, to dissect the curious behavior of Rex Heuermann, who is reportedly leaning towards religion while being incarcerated. The conversation, though centered around Heuermann, brought up a larger point - the frequency with which incarcerated individuals turn to religion, a phenomenon commonly termed as 'jailhouse religion'. “We're talking right now about Rex Heuermann,” Tony began, and mentioned Heuermann's current living conditions, hinting at the psychological toll that may ensue from being in confinement. Of particular interest to Brueski was Heuermann’s reported wish to have religious services, specifically from the Roman Catholic Church, brought to him. Brueski stated, “...but he is of Roman Catholic descent, and we're told that someone from the Roman Catholic Church has come in.” Addressing this, Scott revealed, “Jailhouse religion, I cannot tell you how common that is.” She further explained that even individuals with a history of serious crimes suddenly become intensely interested in spiritual matters when incarcerated. Comparing it to the sudden surge of faith among soldiers in war, she opined that it's a “human tendency to reach out to the supernatural for comfort when people are feeling a lot of stress.” Scott's perspective is particularly enlightening as she suggests that this gravitation towards faith might not be as straightforward as it appears. While on the surface, it may look like a genuine search for redemption or spiritual solace, the reasons behind such a shift could be manifold. Some might be seeking a genuine connection, while others could be motivated by more ulterior motives. But do these individuals, especially those accused or convicted of heinous crimes, perceive and adopt religion in the same manner as others? Tony posed an intriguing question: "Is it speaking to them differently? Does it play into their narcissism?" Scott's answer provided a window into the mind of such individuals. She speculated that for some, turning to religion could be a method of absolving responsibility. She explained, “If you believe you've been forgiven for whatever sin you've committed just by praying about it, you may gain a little bit of comfort from that.” Another interesting angle was whether these inmates use their newfound faith as a strategic move during trials. Could showcasing a religious transformation affect jury sentiments? Brueski remarked, "It's definitely that... It looks good." Scott expanded on this idea, highlighting the instances where convicts engage in spiritual performances to attract and manipulate vulnerable individuals, especially women seeking relationships with 'bad boys'. The conversation didn't limit itself to prisons. Tony drew parallels with businesses that wear their faith on their sleeves, possibly as a strategic move. “Where a business will add some sort of religious aspect to their signage or to their logo...,” he observed, indicating that this might not always stem from genuine faith, but rather an attempt to attract a certain clientele or project trustworthiness. In concluding remarks, both Tony and Scott agreed on the manipulative nature of this phenomenon when not genuine. Scott summarized, “They know that's going to build trust and people will ask fewer questions if they believe that, 'oh, we're talking to a person of God,' so therefore, it gives this veneer of righteousness to them. So it's a pretty dirty manipulation when it's done that way.” The episode, rich with insights from Scott, is a testament to the multifaceted nature of human behavior. Whether one believes in the authenticity of 'jailhouse religion' or sees it as a strategic move, the phenomenon undoubtedly presents an intriguing facet of the human psyche, begging further exploration. 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
30 Elo 20236min
Why Did Police Chief Ignore Clear Evidence That Would Lead to Heuermann?
The investigations involving former Suffolk County Chief of Police, James Burke, have taken a labyrinthine turn, unveiling potential cover-ups, discrepancies, and many more layers than initially assumed. As the "Hidden Killers" podcast, hosted by Tony Brueski, delved deep into this mystery, many questions arose regarding Burke's role and responsibilities during his tenure, especially concerning the Rex Heman case. Reflecting on the intricacies of this case, Brueski noted, "The layers of the onion continue to peel back." Evidence has emerged from various sources, shedding light on this intricate web. One particularly revealing piece is a documentary released on Hulu by TMZ. This piece included an interview with a friend of one of the victims, who vividly recalled his account to the Suffolk County Police, highlighting the victim's unsettling interaction with Erman. The friend described Erman as an "ogre-like character, overbearing, big", which perfectly matched the description of Heman. Yet, even with such an apparent lead, the authorities overlooked connecting Erman to the case nearly a decade ago. Brueski raised a critical question that lingers in the minds of many: "Is there ever repercussions for things like that to someone like Burke who clearly was derelict in his job?" Robin Dreeke, retired FBI Special Agent, acknowledged the severity of the oversight but added, "Just because something's unethical doesn't mean it's illegal." Dreeke also expressed concerns about potential legal recourse against Burke. Discussing the feasibility of prosecuting someone for neglecting their duty, Dreeke noted the challenges in distinguishing between unethical behavior and illegal activities. He observed, "It'd be really tough to do that." This line of thought emphasizes a recurrent theme - the blurring lines between ethical responsibilities and legal implications in such cases. But the conversation took a darker turn when speculations arose about the other cases under Burke's purview. Dreeke mused, "What other cases, 100%. Now we know about Herman, there's new command in there that's reevaluating some of these cases." He highlighted the alarming number of bodies discovered on the beach, drawing attention to the fact that Heman was only connected to three or four, hinting at the possibility of more connections. Drawing a line to Burke's recent arrest, Dreeke emphasized the unsettling nature of the police chief's frequentation of circles that included numerous sex workers. He suggested, "If you are the chief of police, you probably don't necessarily want to go in there and necessarily ruffle any feathers in that community," hinting at the possibility of Burke's involvement being more insidious than mere negligence. Echoing this sentiment, Brueski concluded, "We might have just scratched the tip of that iceberg." The questions now arise - what did the Chief of Police know? When did he know it? And who else was involved? As more details emerge, it becomes increasingly clear that all cases overseen by Burke during his tenure need thorough reexamination. The layers of this case might be peeling back, but as the podcast suggests, the heart of this mystery might be deeper and darker than anyone could have imagined. 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
30 Elo 20234min
Sociopath ME Thompson On How Sociopath Rex Heuermann Functioned
In a riveting conversation, Tony Brueski of the "Hidden Killers" podcast sat down with diagnosed psychopath and author, M.E. Thomas, for a discussion on the dark intricacies of a sociopathic mind. M.E. Thomas, author of the compelling read "Confessions of a Sociopath, A Life Spent Hiding in Plain Sight," offers an unparalleled perspective on the mind of someone who can live without the typical boundaries of morality and empathy. In their discussion, Brueski sought to understand the perplexing case of Rex Heuermann, a seemingly average family man and architect, who stands accused of heinous nighttime crimes. Discussing the mindset of someone like Heuermann, M.E. Thomas observed, "He probably has a very high ability to compartmentalize... He doesn't have maybe good integration of self." This ability to see life as 'two separate things' suggests a strong divide between public and private personas, allowing an individual to commit grave acts without internal conflict. As the discussion continued, she provided deeper insights into the disorder. Unlike killers who might be haunted by their actions, Thomas believes Heuermann doesn't experience any conflict between his dual lives. His potential lack of emotional turmoil makes him distinct from other criminals. This distinction led Thomas to suspect a personality disorder, possibly Narcissistic or Antisocial. According to Thomas, Heuermann's behavior displays a high level of compartmentalization that is typically beyond the reach of those without a personality disorder. For example, some individuals might grapple with the dichotomy of their actions, feeling a sense of guilt or remorse. But Heuermann, based on the allegations against him, doesn't appear to internally conflict with his crimes. Delving into the nuances of personality disorders, Thomas explained how different disorders could influence an individual's perception of potential consequences. For instance, someone with an Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder might feel anxious about being caught. In contrast, a person with a Narcissistic Personality Disorder might feel invincible, believing they're smarter than law enforcement. For Heuermann, his alleged indifference to getting caught hints at a potential blend of narcissism and a Machiavellian attitude. Reflecting on her own experience as a psychopath, Thomas detailed the advantages and challenges of compartmentalization. Such individuals, she explained, can easily adapt and mold themselves to situations due to the lack of a firmly anchored self-identity. While this malleability can be an advantage, it also presents challenges. Sharing personal information, even trivial facts, becomes a burden. Keeping up with the lies and maintaining consistency in one's narrative is a complex balancing act. This revealing discussion provided a deep dive into the mind of someone who, by all external appearances, seems normal but might harbor dark secrets within. M.E. Thomas's insights are a valuable contribution to understanding the complicated world of sociopathy, shedding light on the often-hidden undercurrents of human psychology. 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
29 Elo 202313min
Did Former Police Chief Enable Gilgo Beach Killer?
In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, a shocking revelation has come to light concerning the investigation into suspected serial killer, Rex Heman. The discourse took a twist when the discussion pivoted to the arrest of former Chief of Police in Suffolk County, James Burke, apprehended for soliciting a sex worker in a park. Burke's arrest raises serious questions given his tenure at the helm of the Suffolk County Police during the years Heman is believed to have been most active. Host Tony Brueski, who interviewed retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke, raised concerns about the potential influence or involvement of Burke and possibly other high-ranking officials in the very community being scrutinized. Brueski commented, "Nobody's looking at these things because maybe the police chief doesn't want any microscopes looking at him as well." Dreeke shared his astonishment at the news, remarking, "Shocking and sad. Isn't it? When I read this, I was shocked and appalled like everyone else was." A significant portion of the discussion centered around the puzzling fact that Burke actively blocked external agencies, including the FBI, from being involved in the case. Addressing the general misconception that the FBI usually overrides local authorities, Dreeke clarified that this rarely happens. He explained, "It depends on the statute, depends on whether it's a federal statute you're prosecuting or local. And this is a local case." The crux of the matter lies in the relationship between the local police chiefs and the head of the FBI office. In ideal circumstances, both parties collaborate and pool their resources to further an investigation. Dreeke outlined this, stating, "Both parties go to each other and say, 'Hey, what can I do to assist you?'" The Suffolk case, however, deviated from this norm. When the FBI offered its extensive resources to aid the investigation, including profilers, interviewers, and forensics, they were denied involvement. "Is that a red flag when the FBI is turned away from a local jurisdiction?" asked Brueski. Dreeke then shed light on the underlying factors often influencing such decisions. The root of these obstructions often boils down to ego clashes, personality conflicts, and sometimes, unfortunately, individuals prioritizing their careers over the mission. "If you have a case agent or an investigator that is 100% about the mission and willing to sacrifice their career, maybe their reputation to battle their executive management to get things moving because they think something's wrong...you might be able to make a difference," Dreeke shared. However, the contrary also holds. When individuals are career-oriented, often reluctant to ruffle feathers, investigations like that of Rex Heman suffer. For Dreeke, cases are as much about managing relationships and navigating egos as they are about pursuing the truth. He lamented, "Egos and vanity get involved in these things, unfortunately, and this is one of those cases where it totally undermined the investigation." In light of these revelations, the case of Rex Heman and the involvement (or lack thereof) of multiple agencies will likely remain under public and media scrutiny. The arrest of James Burke further adds layers of complexity, demanding a comprehensive re-evaluation of the events and decisions that have shaped the investigation thus far. 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
29 Elo 20236min
WEEK IN REVIEW-Did Police Over-Damage Heuermann's House During Raid?
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
28 Elo 20235min
WEEK IN REVIEW-Is Heuermann Going Away For Life No Matter What?
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
27 Elo 20235min
WEEK IN REVIEW-Identifying 'Red Flags' In Heuermann's Family Behavior
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
27 Elo 20235min
WEEK IN REVIEW-Did Heuermann Torment Victims Families By Calling Them From Victims Phones?
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
26 Elo 20239min
