5: Full Interview With Suspected Gilgo Beach Killer Rex Heuermann

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

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

20 Jan 202418min

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

20 Jan 202425min

Accused Long Island serial killer Rex Heuermann faces new charges after DNA evidence linked him to the notorious "Gilgo Beach Four" murders. In an indictment unsealed in Suffolk County court, Heuermann, 60, was charged with the murder of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, one of the victims whose remains were discovered along the Sound Shore in 2010. These murders had remained unsolved for 13 years.    The breakthrough in the case came as investigators connected Brainard-Barnes' murder to Heuermann through DNA evidence. Specifically, a female hair found on the victim's body was matched to samples collected from Heuermann's wife, Asa Ellerup, and their 26-year-old daughter, Victoria. Remarkably, both women were out of town when all four of the murders took place, including the time of Brainard-Barnes' death in Atlantic City, as detailed in the indictment.    Prosecutors revealed disturbing details about Heuermann's alleged activities. He reportedly texted escorts while his wife and children were away, engaging in sick online searches such as "Very skinny white teen tied up porn," "tied up fat girl porn," "medieval torture of women," and "how I was raped audio." Investigators also discovered a collection of violent, bondage, and torture pornography on Heuermann's electronic devices. Furthermore, they found that he had used his computer to contact escorts, using the names "Andy" or "Andrew," which correspond to his middle name.    One of the escorts allegedly received a text message from Heuermann on March 1, 2020, stating, "Hi, I saw your ad and wanted to see if we could set something up later." This chilling exchange occurred as the escort asked if the following day would work, to which Heuermann responded, "I am working all day. I was free today; my wife is out for the day… working Monday."    While Rex Heuermann pleaded not guilty to these new charges, his wife, Asa Ellerup, and daughter, Victoria Heuermann, were present at the arraignment but did not address reporters.    Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney had previously identified Rex Heuermann as the primary suspect in the death of Maureen Brainard-Barnes. He had expressed that his office was close to linking Heuermann to her case.    Maureen Brainard-Barnes, 25, was the first of the "Gilgo Four" to disappear on July 9, 2007. Her body was later discovered on December 13, 2010, and she was reportedly bound with a belt stamped with the initials "WH," which investigators have suggested may have belonged to Heuermann's late grandfather, William Heuermann.    The "Gilgo Four" case involved the discovery of more than ten sets of human remains along Ocean Parkway between December 2010 and April 2011. Three other victims who worked as escorts, Amber Lynn Costello, Melissa Barthelemy, and Megan Waterman, became known as the "Gilgo Four."    Maureen Brainard-Barnes had a life prior to her tragic disappearance. She was originally from Groton, Connecticut, and was described as a straight-A student who dropped out of school at 17 after becoming pregnant. She held various jobs, including working as a card dealer at the Foxwoods Resort Casino, at a local ShopRite, and at a gas station in the area.    As this shocking case unfolds, investigators continue their efforts to seek justice for the victims and their families, as well as to provide answers in a case that has haunted Long Island for over a decade.  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

17 Jan 202412min