9: Inside The Family Life Of Accused Gilgo Beach Killer Rex Heuermann

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 Aug 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

26 Aug 20239min

In the latest episode of "Hidden Killers" podcast, Tony Brueski sat down with former Felony Prosecutor and attorney Eric Faddis to discuss the unfolding saga of Rex Heuermann. The high-profile case has turned heads once again as the Las Vegas police department makes strides in DNA testing related to a New Jersey murder case from years ago.    As per the conversation, Heuermann's DNA is undergoing a direct comparison with the evidence recovered from the crime scene. The results, expected within six to eight weeks, could have significant implications for the case. "Forensics have really advanced within the past 20 to 30 years or so," Faddis notes, pointing out that preserved DNA samples are now coming back into the spotlight as technology allows for more precise matches.    Brueski raises an intriguing point, “Does this put any more weight on it in terms of that they got this far to make the comparison?” suggesting the gravity of having such direct comparisons. Faddis responds by saying, "And so unfortunately for him, Las Vegas is doing that DNA testing." The attorney also posits that other jurisdictions with cold cases might begin to compare preserved DNA samples to Heuermann's DNA, potentially leading to more criminal cases in the future.    If further DNA matches are found, the discussion touches upon potential legal ramifications, including where the trials might take place. While cross-state crimes often raise the question of whether the federal court should handle the matter, Faddis suspects that individual states might choose to prosecute Heuermann separately.    On the topic of Heuermann’s family, Brueski delves into the controversial GoFundMe campaign in light of the family's reported financial situation. The family's apparent wealth, juxtaposed with an $80,000 tax levy and the GoFundMe campaign, raises eyebrows. Faddis ponders on the family’s motivation, suggesting that “they're kind of preparing for what they could see as the inevitable.” It's noted that the family has sought legal counsel, leading to more speculation about their involvement or knowledge.    In situations where financial assets are jointly held, the courts often face dilemmas on how to proceed, especially when other family members, potentially victims themselves, rely on those funds. Faddis explains, "With almost every legal matter, there's what the law says, right? And then there's the human component." While the courts might initially be sympathetic, civil suits brought forward by victims' families could change this perspective.    The Rex Heuermann case continues to draw national attention, shedding light on the advancements in forensics, the complexities of the legal system, and the profound impact such high-profile cases can have on the accused's family. As investigations proceed and legal battles ramp up, all eyes will be on Las Vegas as the DNA results are awaited. 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

25 Aug 20237min

The chilling case of Rex Heuermann took center stage in the recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers", as Tony Brueski sat down with Defense Attorney and podcast host of "Defense Diaries", Bob Motta. The discussion revolved around startling DNA revelations found on burlap sacks associated with the case and drew comparisons with other notorious serial killer cases.    "Interestingly enough, there was more DNA of his wife than him that was actually on the sacks themselves," Brueski revealed at the outset, setting the stage for a gripping discussion.    For the uninitiated, the fact that Heuermann's wife's DNA was more prevalent on the sacks, yet she was quickly cleared by the authorities, raises questions. What Brueski found most perplexing, and what became a central point of discussion, was that "the police investigators, detectives have not sat down and talked with her yet."    Motta, who possesses an intimate knowledge of notorious killers, given his father served as John Wayne Gacy's attorney, shared his astonishment at the lack of conversation with Heuermann's wife. Using the Gacy case as an illustrative point, he drew similarities between the two cases. "Gacy was married... for the first, you know, four years of his killing period," Motta began. He highlighted how Gacy's wife, Carol, had unknowingly lived in a house where the body of Tim McCoy was buried. With Carol often questioning the foul smell coming from the crawlspace below their home, Gacy would dismiss her concerns, attributing it to "a dead raccoon or something."    Motta's telling account painted a chilling picture of life with a serial killer, highlighting moments where Carol heard screams emanating from their garage and Gacy's frequent late-night disappearances. "It's hard. Like, and I'm certainly not gonna cast any shade on his wife. 'Cause I don't know," Motta pondered. He further delved into the psyche of those close to the perpetrators, musing over the possibility of willful blindness or a lack of awareness of their partner's crimes.    Drawing parallels with the Heuermann case, the duo questioned the reasons behind the law enforcement's apparent inertia in interviewing Heuermann's wife. "It certainly warrants a conversation with her," Motta asserted. Brueski weighed in with his thoughts, hypothesizing that law enforcement might be monitoring her actions in her natural environment before proceeding.    The discussion then turned to another baffling case of Jared GaN. Brueski pointed out how GaN's wife, who had been under scrutiny for a considerable amount of time, was eventually arrested and charged with first-degree murder. While not insinuating a direct connection with the Heuermann case, Brueski found it "extremely odd that there's been no conversations there with law enforcement."    Both Brueski and Motta stressed the importance of the presumption of innocence. However, the conversation underscored the need for thorough investigations, especially when critical evidence like DNA is present at crime scenes.    The Rex Heuermann case, as discussed in this episode, offers a haunting insight into the enigmatic world of criminal investigations, leaving listeners with more questions than answers. As investigations proceed, the "Hidden Killers" podcast promises to keep its audience at the edge of their seats, unraveling mysteries, one episode at a time. 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

25 Aug 20234min

In a recent episode of the popular podcast, "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski, discussions delve deep into the perplexing life of Rex Heuermann's wife, Asa. Rex, a suspected serial killer, has been the subject of major news outlets, but it's Asa's recent actions that have caught the media's attention. As Tony Brueski mentions, the grieving process is highly personal. Yet, there's been widespread criticism about Asa's apparent lack of empathy towards the victims her husband is accused of murdering. Rather than expressing sorrow or remorse, Asa has been seen "complaining about the house", "asking for money", and even "flipping off the press". Notably, she often sits on her porch, seemingly taunting the journalists who camp outside her home. Guest psychologist, John Delatorre, provides a different perspective. He believes that if Asa genuinely had no idea about her husband's crimes, her anger might be justified. Delatorre says, "If you legitimately did not know that your partner was engaging in the heinous acts and the police came in and completely upended your life, I'd be upset too." He further speculates that her personality may have always been of a self-centered nature, which could have contributed to her remaining oblivious to her husband's activities and made her a suitable partner for Rex. There's a rising sentiment that Asa exhibited "willful ignorance". Considering the wealth amassed by the couple, estimated between $5 to $7 million, one wonders if financial stability played a part in her decision to ignore possible nefarious activities. Delatorre agrees that financial incentives could lead individuals to overlook certain behaviors: "If you have money and you don't have to worry then if something threatens that, you're probably gonna close ranks because no one wants to lose money." Adding another layer to the intrigue, despite the apparent wealth, Asa has promoted a GoFundMe campaign, claiming her insurance will soon lapse and that she suffers from cancer. The campaign has been a point of contention, with some arguing that public funding is inappropriate for someone with such significant assets. Delatorre, however, suggests that the true nature of Asa's financial status remains unclear. He raises the possibility that legal fees for Rex's defense might consume a large chunk of their wealth. In addition to this financial debate, attorney John Ray, representing some of the victims, has expressed concerns about the fundraising efforts. The core question remains: Is Asa's plea for public funds genuine or a strategic move amidst the turmoil? The case of Rex Heuermann and his wife's behavior poses more questions than answers. Asa's actions, as described on "Hidden Killers", highlight the myriad of ways individuals react in the face of tragedy and scandal, adding another dimension to an already complex and chilling case. As developments unfold, the public remains captivated by the enigmatic life of a serial killer's spouse. 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

25 Aug 20235min

In a recent episode of the popular podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski engaged in a deep discussion with retired FBI Special Agent and Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program, Robin Dreeke, about the legitimacy and motives behind a controversial GoFundMe campaign related to Rex Heuermann's wife. Heuermann is linked to the Gilgo Beach murder victims.   Brueski opened the dialogue, inquiring about attorney John Ray's stance. Ray represents some of the Gilgo Beach murder victims. He expressed concerns that Heuermann's wife might be "conning the public" with the GoFundMe campaign. "They have wealth, they have money they may not appear to, but he believes they're worth quite a bit and have property in multiple states," Brueski noted. True Crime Today and Hidden Killers Podcast does not have proof of what Ray is suggesting. Authorities had initially ruled out any involvement of Heuermann’s wife, Asa Ellerup, stating that she had an alibi at the time of the crimes.   Dreeke responded with a pragmatic viewpoint, touching upon the possible need for the campaign. "I did hear...that since she's covered under his medical...she might lose that and her medical capabilities to take care of that. And I don't know what the government sees from him either, even though they do have money. Was it in her name? Is she joined? There's a lot of admin and logistics kind of things."   The podcast episode took a critical look at society's readiness to support such campaigns without delving deeper into the context or ensuring that funds go where they are genuinely needed. Brueski voiced a shared concern about people's eagerness to "put a bandaid on a huge problem." He said, "emotion plays a big deal in...I want to give them some money and, and it'll make me feel good about doing that."   Another point of contention is a substantial $80,000 tax levy against the Heuermanns. Brueski pointed out, "I would be wondering if some of this GoFundMe money, once it hits an account, is going to be taken by the government to pay off Heuermann's tax bill."   Dreeke added to this, emphasizing the human need for connection and compassion, especially after tragedies. "People have an incessant need... of wanting to be connected, want to be compassionate, want to tout that as not just as altruism but also for their own ego and vanity." He also warned about potential fraud in such fundraising campaigns, suggesting that without proper controls, things can easily go astray.   The duo agreed on the importance of seeking clarity and transparency in these situations. Dreeke, sharing his expertise on deception indicators, said, "When you don't have a lot of clarity, you should be able to seek clarity and transparency when these things pop up." He continued, "If this is on the up and up, I should be able to have my questions answered quickly, efficiently, and transparently so that I no longer have questions."   Brueski echoed this sentiment, suggesting there seem to be "a lot of...yield signs on this" GoFundMe campaign. Both urged caution for potential contributors, advising listeners to ensure they are fully informed before making any financial commitments.   The episode underscores the increasing complexities of online fundraising and the moral and ethical implications surrounding them. With the rise of platforms like GoFundMe, where anyone can ask for financial help for nearly any reason, there's a growing need for diligence, transparency, and caution from both campaigners and potential donors. 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

25 Aug 20235min

In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski spoke with Detective Jason Howe about the ongoing case surrounding the Gilgo Beach Killer, where fingers are pointed towards Rex Heuermann.    Currently, Heuermann is isolated in a high-security housing unit, where he partakes in all activities, from eating to recreation, alone. Such treatment, though typical of high-profile cases, raises a pertinent question: would a more relaxed confinement strategy allow Heuermann to inadvertently volunteer information?    "Well, I can tell you from experience that we monitor quite a bit of jail and prison communications. It's a very useful tool in some criminal investigations," remarked Detective Howe. However, he highlighted the need for the balance of security and the mental well-being of the inmates. Being locked down for 23 hours daily with limited social interaction can be mentally taxing.    While Heuermann's solitary confinement may seem severe, it's based on the primary objective of ensuring his safety. Still, there are glimpses of interaction. For instance, Heuermann has been granted limited religious services. A representative from the Roman Catholic Church was allowed to see him, though it's not clear if a confession transpired during their conversation.    This brings about another challenging dimension to the discussion: how monitored are interactions between inmates and priests? In most standard scenarios, conversations, especially confessions, with religious figures remain confidential. However, the lines get blurred within the prison walls.    "And absolutely there is some contact there for religious reasons and that wouldn't be monitored necessarily. There is some kind of privilege there when it comes to confession," Detective Howe explained. Such privileges, akin to attorney-client privileges, signify that if Heuermann were to confess to a crime during such a religious interaction, the priest isn't obliged to disclose it. In some states, the only exception is if the confession relates to child abuse.    Brueski further probed, "But would a priest, is it up to the priest to decide whether or not they want to share that information?" Howe replied, "By any means he could share the information that he heard, but he would probably run afoul of the church and find himself in some predicament there." This means that while legally, a priest might be able to come forward with such information, doing so could have significant ramifications for their standing within the church.    Essentially, while the privileges of confession are designed to protect sensitive information, they also present a unique challenge within the criminal justice system. Especially in a case as high profile as the Gilgo Beach Killer, where every shred of information is vital.    The discourse between Brueski and Detective Howe offers a comprehensive look into the complexities of the criminal justice system, especially when it intersects with other societal institutions like the church. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen if such interactions will play any role in the overall investigation.    The bigger picture, however, remains. While Rex Heuermann's confinement is typical of high-profile suspects, the delicate balance between security, mental well-being, and the potential for extracting information is a dance the authorities must navigate carefully. It's a situation that underscores the intricacies of the justice system, especially when pursuing the truth behind some of its most challenging cases. 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

24 Aug 20234min

The recent episode of the popular "Hidden Killers" podcast brought to light the complex matter of suicide watch in jails, specifically focusing on the case of Rex Heuermann. Tony Brueski, the show's host, dives deep into the topic with psychologist Dr. John Delatorre.   Rex Heuermann's case has drawn attention due to the recent decision to take him off suicide watch. Tony questioned the wisdom behind this move, considering the potentially damning circumstances around Heuermann, wondering aloud if "he may be someone who would want to end it."   Delatorre shared the complexity behind such decisions, explaining, “The problem with the suicide watch is that it's too taxing on the resources of the facility.” He further elaborated that while Heuermann needs monitoring, he doesn’t necessarily need the stringent conditions of suicide watch.   When asked about the specific conditions and protocols surrounding suicide watch, Delatorre detailed, “When someone's on suicide watch, not only are there more frequent looks at his cell... they're also put in a smock.” This vest-like smock, often seen in crime-related documentaries, is primarily designed to prevent self-harm.   As the conversation progressed, Brueski sought clarity on how decisions are made regarding an inmate's placement on or removal from suicide watch. Delatorre explained that usually a "medical doctor" is responsible for such decisions, in consultation with the facility's main security officers.   The episode also touched upon the lack of family visits for Heuermann, and the attempts of public members, likely true crime enthusiasts, to interact with him. Such visits were, however, declined by Heuermann, indicating his reluctance or perhaps his understanding of the gravity of his situation.   In a turn to the collateral damage from crime investigations, the podcast also discussed claims made by Heuermann’s family against law enforcement concerning a raid on their home. They reported damaged beds, destroyed drain pipes, and general disorder, speculating on the possibility of their home being a hoarder house prior to the raid.   In answering Brueski’s query about the family's potential case against law enforcement, Delatorre commented, "I think a lot of that's gonna depend on what the warrant says.” He elaborated on the intricacies of warrants and probable cause statements, suggesting that if officers overstepped their permissions, the family could potentially have a legal argument.   However, the foundation of any such case will lie in the specifics of the warrant, Delatorre noted. If the warrant was broad, allowing officers to search any part of the home, the family's claims might not hold much weight. However, if it was restrictive, only allowing for a search of particular rooms or areas, the family might have grounds for a case.   The episode paints a vivid picture of the complexities surrounding criminal investigations, the treatment of those accused, and the potential collateral damage to their families. Both Brueski and Delatorre effectively highlight the balance between the rights of the accused, the safety of the community, and the efficient operation of law enforcement agencies. 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

24 Aug 20235min