Long Island Serial Killer | The Trial Of Rex Heuermann

Rex Heuermann, a prime suspect in the notorious Gilgo Beach murder case, is once again under scrutiny, and this time, so is his wife. According to fresh allegations, not only did Heuermann have deep ties to the deaths of several sex workers, but he might have led a darker life than anyone imagined. So, what shadows did the walls of the Heuermann household hide, and how much of it was visible to his wife, Asa?    The latest revelations paint a picture of Heuermann as a man deeply involved in a swinger-style sex life dating back to 1996. As discussed on the "Hidden Killers" podcast with Tony Brueski and Forensic Psychologist Joni Johnston, some former sex workers claimed to recognize Heuermann, describing him as an easily distinguishable figure. More chillingly, they described occasions when he would take them to his house, specifically to the basement, for sex parties, while his wife stayed upstairs. As Brueski highlighted, "But the allegations are that she was very aware of what was going on."    Asa Heuermann has thus far claimed ignorance of any sinister activities. Johnston commented on the distinction between knowing of her husband's sexual escapades and associating him with torturing and murdering women. "There is obviously a huge gap between knowing that your husband is a swinger... and then all of a sudden, thinking that your husband is torturing and luring, you know, sex workers and then torturing and murdering them," she remarked. But the continuous waves of allegations are casting a shadow of doubt on Asa's claims.    A significant point of debate is the duration of Rex Heuermann's deviant behavior. The general consensus among many was that his crimes were limited to the 2000-2010 timeframe. However, Johnston expressed skepticism, hinting at the possibility of Heuermann’s activities spanning a much broader timeline. She remarked on the concerning behaviors before and after the known period, indicating that the investigation is still in its early stages.    The role and knowledge of Asa Heuermann are undeniably under the microscope. Yet, connecting the dots between her being aware of her husband's swinger lifestyle to the assumption of her knowledge about his alleged crimes is a leap. Both Brueski and Johnston emphasize the importance of evidence before drawing conclusions, especially in a case as convoluted as this.    But how does someone like Rex Heuermann, if guilty, live such a dual life? He was, after all, a successful architect with a family. Johnston shed light on the psychology of such individuals, comparing it to the different roles people adopt in various situations but amplified manifold. The ability to compartmentalize, rationalize, and dehumanize are traits that potentially allowed him to detach from his alleged heinous crimes.    The revelations surrounding the Heuermanns have caused a ripple in the world of crime investigation. While the evidence will ultimately decide Rex Heuermann's fate, the testimonies and debates provide a disturbing insight into the depths of human nature.    This brings us to the chilling question: In the midst of such revelations, can we ever truly know the people closest to us? 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

25 Okt 202311min

When the line between our darkest imaginations and reality blurs, how do we discern the truth? Recent allegations unearthed on the podcast "Hidden Killers" hosted by Tony Brueski raise this very question, bringing to the fore claims about Rex Heuermann, a figure mired in controversy, and pointing to a grim underground world of sinister liaisons.    Defense attorney John Ray, representing some of the victims from Gilgo Beach, unveiled claims connecting Heuermann to sexual escapades that ranged from swinger parties to other non-conventional acts. These allegations do more than just paint a scandalous picture of Heuermann; they potentially tie him closer to a series of unsolved murders.    Tony Brueski remarked on the gravity of these revelations, stating, "Certainly it puts him in the circle. Of this swinger sex community. Does that then tie him closer to these potential his name to these murders? I sure think so."    It's not just the nature of the alleged activities that makes these claims significant. Heuermann's unique physical appearance, far from being a typical "five-foot-seven Joe", made him notably memorable to some witnesses. Some even claim to have seen him with his eventual victims while they were still alive, deeply embedding him in this hedonistic scene.    However, memories, especially those spanning decades, can be treacherous. While recalling events from the mid-90s, psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott highlighted, "Memory can be fallible, but... he's a very distinctive appearing person and as much as memory is reconstructed and is fallible, there are things that are pretty accurate." The idea is that even if memories can be malleable, distinct events or people – like Heuermann – might leave a more indelible mark.    Intriguingly, one witness recounted an interaction with Asa Ellerup, potentially placing Heuermann in a bisexual light and tying him to a male victim found on the beach. This witness recalled a conversation wherein Asa expressed both gratitude towards and fear of Heuermann. She refrained from expressing any desire to be part of his darker ventures, yet seemed to be aware of them. This revelation transforms Ellerup into a pivotal character in this unfolding narrative.    Brueski further elaborated, "She's been an interesting character... looking at her as a victim of this, and in certainly many ways, she possibly is." There are suspicions of Asa's possible victimhood, hinting at a toxic relationship marked by fear and control, potentially abused and manipulated by Heuermann. The fact that she might have remained silent about Heuermann's activities for years adds further layers to her role in this ongoing investigation.    However, the manner in which this information has come to light is itself unorthodox. Instead of official investigators leading the charge, these recent revelations have been primarily pushed by defense attorneys. One possible reason? Victims or witnesses might feel more at ease approaching a defense attorney rather than the police, especially if they fear repercussions for their own past activities.    "It's another unusual aspect. The defense attorney is a very colorful character... he's comfortable in the spotlight and not averse at all to going out and talking about these things," stated Scott. With every new piece of information, the timeline for any potential trial seems to stretch further, and the questions only multiply. Why hasn't Asa Ellerup been extensively interviewed by the police? How much more remains hidden, waiting to come to the surface? As with many investigations of this magnitude, clarity often leads to further obscurity. But one thing is certain: as the Rex Heuermann saga unfolds, the world watches with bated breath. The real question then becomes: when the curtain finally falls, are we prepared to confront the truth that lies beneath? 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

25 Okt 20239min

The recent episode of "Hidden Killers" had podcast enthusiasts and crime sleuths buzzing with anticipation. The intense conversation between Tony Brueski, the show's host, and retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke, centered on one tantalizing question: Is Rex Heuermann connected to the unsolved Gilgo Beach murders?    Rex Heuermann's name has resurfaced in connection with potential murders at Gilgo Beach, notably the case of Karen Vergata from 1996. Vergata's remains were discovered on Fire Island, initially identified as "Fire Island Jane Doe." It was only in 2011 that her skull was found on Ocean Parkway and DNA identification confirmed her identity. Another victim, Valerie Mack, vanished in 2000. Her mutilated remains were found scattered across Long Island, including Ocean Parkway.    Brueski, diving into the details, notes, "these murders... break the mold a bit of what we saw with Rex Heuermann on the other three that he is accused of being a part of." Dreeke brings forth the concept of "link analysis" which pertains to the methodology of how serial killers operate and leave their victims. Serial killers, Dreeke notes, can evolve. They may change their modus operandi over time. In Heuermann's case, the deviation in his methods could be due to evolution or perhaps even an earlier version of his murderous spree.    However, it's the technology factor that's the game-changer. In the 90s and early 2000s, killers could not have anticipated the rapid advancements in DNA and genetic analysis. Today, these techniques might very well hold the key to uncovering the links between Heuermann and these unsolved cases.    The discussion took a broader look at the psychology behind serial killers. The question arose: is it common for serial killers, like Heuermann, to pause their nefarious activities only to resume them years later? According to Dreeke, the motive behind the murders is often a "fantasization" leading to a form of sexual release. Serial killers might take breaks from the act itself but their underlying desires persist. They often "take trophies" or engage in abnormal behaviors to relive the thrill, bridging the gaps between their killings.    The intriguing aspect of Heuermann's case lies in the intelligence he exhibited. Serial killers like Heuermann or the infamous BTK killer, Dennis Rader, executed their crimes with an almost clinical precision. Their meticulous planning and high intelligence levels make them exceptionally elusive.    But what sparks this dark descent into murder and mayhem? Dreeke mentions the inherent need for "grandiosity" in some killers. They continually push boundaries, seeking an ever-increasing dopamine release. While this might manifest as thrill-seeking behaviors in normal individuals, for potential serial killers, it spirals into a pathological need for violence. The key, Dreeke posits, is channeling these urges into healthy activities.    However, as the conversation shifted towards understanding the root of such unhealthy behaviors, the nurture aspect of the nature versus nurture debate took center stage. For Dreeke, understanding the trauma or incidents in a killer's formative years can offer insights into their present actions.    With this enlightening conversation, the "Hidden Killers" podcast has left its listeners pondering yet another significant question: If someone around us exhibits extreme behaviors, seeking thrills in abnormal ways, could they be hiding deeper, darker urges? Only time, and perhaps more investigations like this, will tell. 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

24 Okt 202311min

Could Asa Ellerup, the wife of the alleged serial killer Rex Heuermann, truly be clueless about her husband's dark dealings?    The chilling saga surrounding Rex Heuermann, connected to the infamous Gilgo Beach murders, only deepens. The recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers" with Tony Brueski and attorney Neama Rahmani shed light on this unnerving narrative, unearthing the possibility of Heuermann's involvement in more killings than initially suspected.    Rex Heuermann, long associated with the discovery of several bodies from the late 90s to early 2000s, seems to have evaded justice through the advances of technology. "We're talking about Long Island... same time frame, sex workers," Rahmani stated, emphasizing the pattern in Heuermann's alleged crimes. Yet, capturing and prosecuting a suspect is never as simple as spotting a pattern, especially with cold cases. "It's not what we know; it's what we can prove," Rahmani reminded listeners.    The discussion took a particularly disturbing turn when Asa Ellerup, Heuermann's wife, entered the conversation. An affidavit from a witness, reported by the Daily Beast, provided a grim account of a 1996 encounter at Heuermann's residence. The witness, attending a "sex party," recalled an interaction with Ellerup. The wife allegedly admitted her fear of Rex and implied indebtedness to him for everything she had.    Ellerup has consistently painted herself as an unsuspecting victim, taken aback by her husband's malevolence. However, these emerging testimonials suggest she might have been more than just an innocent bystander. "How could all of this be happening really under her nose and her not know about it?" Rahmani posed, echoing the suspicions of many.    Further testimonies recounted Heuermann as a frequent client of sex workers, occasionally inviting multiple to his residence. Notably, during such events, Ellerup was allegedly present upstairs. This revelation challenges the notion of Ellerup's ignorance and portrays a couple with an unconventional, and perhaps sinister, domestic dynamic.    Brueski, with palpable skepticism, queried Rahmani on Ellerup's potential culpability. Rahmani did not mince words: "She probably should lawyer up... If I were her and if I have any information, I would throw my ex-husband under the bus as quickly as possible."    The parallels with other notorious criminals like BTK's Dennis Rader further complicate the narrative. Just as investigations into Rader were reignited after uncovering more evidence, so too might the trail surrounding Heuermann and Ellerup continue. With victims and their families still seeking closure, the pursuit of justice remains relentless.    However, a recurring theme in Rahmani's insights is the distinction between what is known and what can be proven. While the testimonies and emerging evidence heavily implicate Heuermann, and increasingly Ellerup, the wheels of justice move with evidence, not assumptions.    Concluding their discussion, Brueski and Rahmani mused on the potential ramifications for Ellerup, especially if more evidence surfaces. Rahmani's advice was clear: cooperation with the authorities might be Ellerup's most strategic move. However, will the looming threat of indictment be the push she needs?    Could Asa Ellerup be holding the key to untangling the entire Gilgo Beach web of horrors? Only time and further investigation will reveal the truth. 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 Okt 20237min

Suspected Gilgo Beach murderer Rex Heuermann, made his court appearance Wednesday. As anticipation built around the proceedings, a pre-hearing press conference was organized by the prosecutors, unveiling crucial details that might just tilt the scales of justice.    At the forefront of these revelations is the discovery of new DNA evidence that unmistakably aligns with Heuermann. Such findings, often termed the 'gold standard' in forensic investigations, can play a pivotal role in determining the course of a trial, especially in cases that have garnered as much attention as this one. While DNA evidence has historically been a game-changer in many high-profile cases, it remains to be seen how this will specifically influence Heuermann’s defense and overall trial trajectory.    Furthermore, the District Attorney's office took the opportunity to announce the subsequent hearing date, which is set for November 15th. This scheduling update not only helps to keep the public and stakeholders informed but also maintains the momentum of the judicial process.    The case, which has been a focal point for media and the community alike, promises to hold more revelations. As each hearing unfolds, all eyes will be on the courtroom, awaiting the next piece of the puzzle in the Gilgo Beach murder investigation. 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 Sep 202322min

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

24 Sep 20234min

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

24 Sep 20236min

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

24 Sep 20237min