Long Island Serial Killer | The Trial Of 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 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 Jan 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 Jan 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 Jan 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 Jan 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 Jan 20246min

Is the Long Island serial killer case becoming more intricate with each passing day? The recent charges against Rex Heuermann for the murder of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, a 25-year-old victim, add yet another layer to this chilling narrative. Tony Brueski, host of "Hidden Killers," dives into the latest developments with Eric Faddis, a former felony prosecutor and attorney.    Faddis was not surprised by the additional charges against Heuermann, suggesting that more victims could be linked to him as the investigation progresses. "No big shocker on adding a fourth alleged victim," Faddis commented. "The real question is how high are we going to get on this?"    Discussing the law enforcement changes in the area, Faddis expressed hope that the new administration would intensify efforts to solve the cold case. "My expectation is that law enforcement is probably going to get even more gung ho on this," he stated.    The conversation then shifted to the controversial Asa Ellerup factor. More hair from Ellerup was found on another body, raising questions about her knowledge of Heuermann's activities. Faddis pointed out the potential legal implications for Ellerup, especially considering her alleged absence during the crimes. "Is it a red flag that Asa's hair was there? Certainly a significant piece of evidence that needs to be looked into," Faddis explained.    Brueski and Faddis delved into the complexities surrounding Ellerup's possible awareness of her husband's deviant lifestyle. The constant assertion that she was 'out of town' during each crime raises eyebrows. Faddis speculated on the dynamics of their relationship and the possibility of an arrangement between the couple, stating, "It'd be hard to come forward... but when you have these homicides connected to this potential arrangement, I think she's got to be pretty forthcoming."    The discussion highlighted the intricate web of the Long Island serial killer case, where every revelation seems to lead to more questions than answers. With the investigation deepening and new charges emerging, the public's interest in the case grows, as does the scrutiny on Asa Ellerup's role and knowledge.    As the case unfolds, one can't help but wonder: Will more victims be linked to Heuermann, and what else might surface in the ongoing investigation? The Heuermann case continues to captivate and horrify, reminding us of the complex and often hidden layers that exist in the most disturbing of criminal investigations. 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

22 Jan 20248min

Could the Long Island serial killer case be on the brink of revealing its full horror? Rex Heuermann, now officially charged with the murder of 25-year-old Maureen Brainard Barnes, adds to the growing list of victims linked to the alleged murderer. Host Tony Brueski of "Hidden Killers," along with Jennifer Coffindaffer, a retired FBI special agent, delve into these chilling developments.    Coffindaffer, reflecting on the latest charges, saw no surprise in Heuermann being linked to another victim. However, she emphasized the importance of acknowledging the human aspect behind these crimes, highlighting Barnes' background as a mother, casino dealer, and sex worker. "She was also a mother of two, not just a sex worker... she was more than just a number or a victim," Coffindaffer noted.    Significant evidence has emerged against Heuermann, including DNA matches from Asa Ellerup, his wife, found on the victims. Coffindaffer detailed the forensic findings: "Maureen Brainard Barnes's case involved Asa Ellerup's DNA on her body... This is a pattern we're seeing with the victims linked to the Heuermann household."    The lack of interrogation directed at Asa Ellerup raises questions about her knowledge or involvement in the case. "I find it surprising that Asa Ellerup hasn't been questioned more thoroughly," Coffindaffer stated. "Every time we find evidence, it always leads back to the Heuermann household."    Coffindaffer also pointed out the timeline discrepancies. With a two-year gap between the first and subsequent murders, she pondered Heuermann's activities during this period. "What was he up to in that hiatus? Law enforcement needs to scrutinize his whereabouts and actions during those crucial years."    Brueski and Coffindaffer speculated on the possibility of more victims. Given Heuermann's established pattern and the time gaps between known murders, they concurred that there might be undiscovered crimes. Coffindaffer emphasized the need for ongoing investigations: "We should continue looking at all the places he was in those years, as there could be more victims."    As the conversation unfolded, a broader picture of the Long Island serial killer case began to take shape. The methodical nature of the crimes, the emerging DNA evidence, and the haunting questions about Ellerup's potential knowledge all contribute to a complex and disturbing narrative.    With Heuermann facing charges for four murders, the investigators and the public alike are left pondering the depth of his alleged crimes. As Coffindaffer concluded, "This may be one of those cases where, for years to come, more victims continue to be attributed to him even after his trial."    The Long Island serial killer case continues to evolve, with each revelation shedding light on a dark saga of murder and mystery. As more details emerge, the question lingers: How many more secrets does this case hold? 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

22 Jan 20247min

Is the net finally closing in on the Long Island serial killer? This question looms large as retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke discusses the latest charges against Rex Heuermann with podcast host Tony Brueski. Heuermann, already facing three murder charges, is now linked to the death of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, marking the fourth victim attributed to his alleged crimes.    Dreeke expressed his excitement, not over the charge itself, but over the remarkable investigative efforts that have led to this point. “I got goosebumps on my arm... It wasn't necessarily the charge that was surprising, but the depth of the evidence they have is really becoming illuminating,” he stated.    The prosecution's case leans heavily on mitochondrial DNA evidence, linking Heuermann to the victims. With recent nuclear DNA testing providing more conclusive results, the odds of Heuermann not being involved appear slim. Dreeke praised the prosecution's foresight in engaging multiple DNA labs for independent verification, a strategy he believes indicates their readiness for a robust legal battle. “They were thinking prosecution the entire time,” he observed.    The conversation then shifted to the DNA evidence found in Heuermann’s home. Dreeke noted the sloppiness indicated by multiple instances of family members' hair being found on duct tape at crime scenes. “Sloppiness... makes me think it was like a last-minute plan of his,” Dreeke speculated, pondering whether Heuermann's alleged crimes were hastily executed or borne out of complacency from previous uncaught acts.    Dreeke and Brueski also delved into Heuermann's personal life, discussing the disarray found in his home during the investigation. This personal sloppiness, they theorized, could be reflective of his criminal behavior. “It just really struck me that he's got a behavior arc of sloppiness,” Dreeke remarked.    The conversation then touched on the broader implications of Heuermann's alleged actions, including the possibility of additional victims. “Hard to imagine it went from zero to a hundred... I'm curious at what point these four are on that arc of comfort,” Dreeke pondered, suggesting that Heuermann might have been emboldened by repeated offenses.    The discussion ended with Brueski and Dreeke contemplating the psychological aspects of Heuermann's alleged crimes. The emergence of new evidence and charges paints a chilling picture of a man who may have been hiding in plain sight, leaving the public and the victims' families to grapple with the horrifying reality of his actions.    As the Long Island serial killer case continues to unfold, one question remains: What other secrets lie buried, waiting to be unearthed? The answer to this may only be revealed as the legal proceedings against Rex Heuermann progress, shedding light on the dark corners of a case that has haunted Long Island for years. 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

22 Jan 20248min