How Was Rex Heuerman Allegedly Able To Abuse And Murder So Many For So Long?

Investigators have made a significant connection in the Gilgo Beach murder case, linking one of the phone numbers listed in an alleged planning document belonging to Rex A. Heuermann, the prime suspect, to a former Bronx sex worker. This discovery sheds new light on the case, which has captivated the public for years. Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney made the phone number public in June 2023, seeking help from the public in identifying a woman who may have been targeted by Heuermann around 2002. The number has now been traced to Danielle Goodling, a former Bronx sex worker who died in 2021 from an apparent drug overdose, according to her family. Goodling’s involvement in the case highlights the brutal reality of the crimes Heuermann is accused of committing. Goodling worked as a sex worker in New York during the late 1990s and early 2000s, a period when Heuermann is alleged to have been planning his heinous acts. She had multiple arrests, two of which occurred in 2002 near Heuermann's former office, raising questions about whether their paths might have crossed. The second phone number found in the document, a pager number, remains unverified. Investigators are continuing their efforts to determine its relevance to the case. According to authorities, Heuermann used the planning document between 2000 and 2002, outlining his methods for carrying out his crimes and evading law enforcement. The document included phone numbers associated with individuals identified as "Megan?" and "Target 1," which may refer to Goodling, though her mother, Cindy Fitt, has stated she does not recall her daughter using the name Megan. The connection between Goodling and Heuermann adds another layer to the complex and disturbing investigation. On July 13, 2023, Heuermann, now 60, was arrested outside his Manhattan office in connection with the 2010 murders of Melissa Barthelemy, 24; Megan Waterman, 22; and Amber Costello, 27, according to reports from Front Page Detectives. These women, along with Maureen Brainard-Barnes, 25, whose remains were found near the others, became known as the "Gilgo Four." The scope of the case widened as authorities continued their investigation. In June 2024, Heuermann was charged with the alleged murders of Jessica Taylor in 2003 and Sandra Costilla in 1993. These charges brought the total number of alleged victims to six, all of whom were involved in sex work, according to prosecutors. The timeline of the crimes spans three decades, from Costilla's 1993 death to Heuermann's arrest in 2023. Despite the mounting evidence and the gravity of the charges against him, Heuermann has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges. The ongoing investigation continues to uncover more details about Heuermann's activities and potential victims, as law enforcement works to bring justice to the families of the victims. The revelation of Goodling's connection to one of the phone numbers in Heuermann's planning document is a critical piece of evidence in the broader case. However, with the second phone number still unverified, the investigation is far from over. Authorities remain committed to piecing together the full scope of Heuermann's alleged crimes, as they work to ensure that no stone is left unturned. The Gilgo Beach case, which has haunted the community and captured national attention, continues to evolve as new evidence comes to light. The families of the victims, alongside law enforcement, are seeking closure and justice for the lives lost in what has become one of the most chilling serial murder cases in recent history. As the investigation progresses, the public remains watchful, eager for answers in a case that has left so many questions unanswered for so long. 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, 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

21 Aug 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, 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

27 Jul 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, 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

27 Jul 20247min

In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses the unsettling press conference held by Asa Ellerup, the wife of Rex Heuermann, marking a year since his arrest. Scott comments on the incongruity of the family’s public demeanor, especially given the serious accusations against Heuermann. The discussion also touches on a controversial press conference by the victims' attorney, highlighting disturbing artwork linked to Heuermann's daughter. Scott expresses deep concern about the normalization of sadism and torture in media, especially its accessibility to young minds. The conversation delves into the psychological impact of such exposure on children, the potential increase in disturbed individuals like James Burke, and the societal implications of widespread access to extreme and violent content. Scott underscores the need for better regulation to protect young minds from harmful material. ### Main Points - **Press Conference Reaction:** Asa Ellerup and her children publicly present a seemingly incongruent demeanor during a press conference marking a year since Rex Heuermann's arrest. - **Disturbing Artwork:** Discussion on disturbing artwork linked to Heuermann's daughter, shown by the victims' attorney, raises concerns about the family's image versus reality. - **Normalization of Sadism:** Scott highlights the dangers of normalizing sadism and torture in media, especially its accessibility to children. - **Psychological Impact on Children:** The conversation explores the damaging effects of violent and sexual content on young minds and how it can warp their development. - **Societal Implications:** Concerns about the increase in disturbed individuals due to easy access to extreme content, likening it to the potential creation of more individuals like James Burke. - **Regulatory Needs:** Scott emphasizes the need for stricter regulations to protect children from accessing harmful material online. - **Cultural Reflection:** The discussion reflects on the broader cultural implications of allowing such content to be widely available and its impact on future generations. ### Hashtags #RexHeuermann #AsaEllerup #ShavaunScott #HiddenKillers #JamesBurke #PsychologicalImpact #SadismNormalization 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, 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 Jul 20247min

In the latest episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses the complex connections between former Suffolk County police chief James Burke and accused serial killer Rex Heuermann. The conversation explores Burke's history of accusations and charges, including civil rights violations and possessing disturbing materials, alongside Heuermann's alleged crimes involving sex workers near Gilgo Beach. Scott and Brueski speculate on possible links between Burke and Heuermann, despite the challenges of gathering evidence from past events. They discuss the societal tendency to distrust sex workers' testimonies and the difficulty of rooting out corruption within law enforcement. Scott emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations and the need for public trust in the police, suggesting that historical analysis and in-depth interviews could uncover more about these troubling connections. Main Points - **Connection Speculation:** Discussing potential links between James Burke and Rex Heuermann based on their behaviors and geographic proximity. - **James Burke’s History:** Highlighting Burke's past accusations, including civil rights violations and possession of disturbing materials. - **Societal Distrust:** Examining the challenges of believing sex workers' testimonies and public reluctance to accept law enforcement corruption. - **Investigative Challenges:** Exploring the difficulties in gathering historical evidence and conducting thorough investigations. - **Corruption and Complicity:** Addressing the potential for ongoing complicity within the police force despite Burke's removal from power. - **Importance of Trust:** Emphasizing the need for high ethical standards and public trust in law enforcement. - **Investigative Recommendations:** Advocating for in-depth investigations and interviews to uncover the full extent of corruption and criminal behavior. #JamesBurke #RexHeuermann #ShavaunScott #HiddenKillers #LawEnforcementCorruption #SexWorkerRights #PublicTrust 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, 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

22 Jul 20248min

In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," former felony prosecutor and attorney Eric Faddis discusses the potential connections between Rex Heuermann, accused of being the Long Island serial killer, and former police chief James Burke. The conversation delves into allegations that Burke and Heuermann were seen at the same gatherings in the late '90s and early 2000s, suggesting a deeper connection that might have allowed Heuermann to evade detection for years. Faddis emphasizes the challenge of proving these connections, given the time elapsed and the nature of the witnesses, many of whom were sex workers. He also discusses the significance of obtaining James Burke's FBI file and the importance of forensic evidence in uncovering any links between Burke and Heuermann. Despite the erosion of physical evidence over time, Faddis suggests that thorough forensic testing of items seized from Heuermann's home could reveal crucial information. The discussion highlights the difficulties law enforcement faces in persuading witnesses to come forward and the potential impact of digital footprints in modern investigations. ### Main Points - Rex Heuermann is accused of being the Long Island serial killer, with potential connections to former police chief James Burke. - Allegations suggest that Burke and Heuermann were seen at the same gatherings in the late '90s and early 2000s. - Proving these connections is challenging due to the time elapsed and the nature of the witnesses. - James Burke's FBI file is a key piece of evidence that Heuermann's defense attorneys are seeking. - Forensic testing of items seized from Heuermann's home could reveal links between him and Burke. - The erosion of physical evidence over time complicates the investigation. - Witnesses, many of whom were sex workers, may be reluctant to come forward due to the trauma and stigma associated with their past experiences. ### Hashtags #HiddenKillers #TonyBrueski #EricFaddis #RexHeuermann #JamesBurke #LongIslandSerialKiller #ForensicInvestigation 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, 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

22 Jul 20247min

In an exclusive interview with Eyewitness News, Donna Sturman, the former executive assistant of accused Long Island serial killer Rex Heuermann, has broken her silence, expressing her shock and disbelief at the accusations made against her former boss. Sturman, who worked for Heuermann from 2017 to 2018 at his architectural office in Midtown, revealed her deep-seated trauma over the revelations, stating, "It's traumatizing. It's so unbelievable." Recalling her tenure with Heuermann, Sturman highlighted the irony of DNA evidence linking him to the Gilgo Beach murders, citing a discarded piece of pizza crust she used to buy him. "It always kind of bothered me that he didn't eat the crust," she remarked. Despite her years of working closely with Heuermann, Sturman admitted she never imagined him being accused of such heinous crimes. "To me, he was always so respectful," she stated, reflecting on her perception of her former employer. Sturman vividly recounted the moment she learned of Heuermann's arrest last summer, describing the shock and surreal experience of seeing his name associated with the allegations. "Honestly, it was like moving in slow motion," she recalled. Even witnessing the surveillance footage of Heuermann's arrest, his subsequent mugshot, and court appearances left Sturman overwhelmed. "It's seriously traumatizing," she emphasized. Reflecting on her decision to work for Heuermann despite initial misgivings, Sturman revealed financial difficulties led her to accept the position. However, she never imagined the magnitude of the situation she would find herself in years later. Sturman also shed light on her labor dispute with Heuermann, stating he never paid her overtime or vacation time. Despite filing a complaint with the New York State Department of Labor and winning a judgment of $20,000 in lost wages, Heuermann has failed to pay her to this day. While Eyewitness News reached out to Heuermann's attorney regarding the unpaid wages, they declined to comment on the matter, leaving Sturman still grappling with the aftermath of her association with the accused 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 The Downfall of Diddy, 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

15 Jul 20248min

A Queens pizzeria is causing quite a stir with its new line of T-shirts featuring the accused Gilgo Beach serial killer, Rex Heuermann. The shirts, created by Pizza on the Point in Breezy Point, playfully reference the method of Heuermann's capture, which involved DNA found on a pizza crust. "The Pizza is Amazing," the shirts read. "But make sure you finish the crust — Rex Heuermann, Gilgo Pizza Connoisseur." While the pizza joint’s owners defend the shirts as a slice of Big Apple humor, some customers find the joke to be in poor taste. "That’s dark!" commented Breezy Point retiree Paul Fallon. "That’s beyond dark. That’s tasteless, and tasteless is not a good thing for a pizza parlor." Customer Samantha K also expressed her disapproval. "Oh my God, take the picture off," she said. "It might be funny for some people but it’s really inappropriate. They should definitely take his picture off! That is some dark, dark humor." The idea for the shirts came from the pizza shop’s owner, local restaurateur Tom McGoorty. Chef Stefano Ballato, who spoke on behalf of the shop, explained, "He has a very good sense of humor. He had them printed by his friends. He was born and raised here in Breezy Point." Pizza on the Point is a popular eatery in Breezy Point and is known for its laid-back atmosphere. "Most of the people here are relaxed," Ballato said. "If you go to Manhattan, you can’t make nobody happy. Always someone finds a problem, a way not to be happy. They don’t appreciate nothing funny. Not here, no worry in the world. They’re all good here." Ballato mentioned that the pizzeria has been giving the shirts away to regular customers and might start selling them due to their growing popularity. "This is America," he said. "The tragedy becomes comedy after time, like Saturday Night Live." Despite the controversy, many customers find humor in the situation. "I think it’s hilarious," said customer Alyssa Kotzman. "I really like the way the shirt was laid out. Now that I know I’m definitely going to eat the crust!" Another local, a municipal worker who only identified himself as Brian, also appreciated the humor. "It’s funny," he said. "It’s a little dark. Dark humor, but definitely New York humor." Breezy Point local Chris Reed agreed, adding, "It doesn’t bother me. You gotta make fun of things. You can’t always be a tight ass." Rex Heuermann, a married Massapequa Park architect, is charged with killing six sex workers who went missing as early as 2000. Their bodies were discovered along a desolate stretch of waterfront along Ocean Parkway. The cases went unsolved for over a decade until Heuermann’s arrest last year, which was partly due to DNA evidence found on a pizza crust. As the debate continues, Pizza on the Point remains at the center of a discussion about the limits of humor and the appropriateness of making light of a serious criminal 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 The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, 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

11 Jul 20247min