“I Still Feel Rex Is Here” — Gilgo Killer's Wife, Asa Ellerup’s Grief and Denial, Analyzed by the FBI

When criminal activities unfold, the spotlight often falls on the perpetrator. However, sometimes it veers, illuminating the shadowy figures surrounding the central character. In the curious case of Rex Heuermann, accused of heinous crimes, it's not just him but also his estranged wife, Asa Ellerup, who's now grabbing headlines.   Rex Heuermann's story is a web of accusations involving countless crimes against sex workers, but it's Asa's recent plea that's left many baffled. Attorney and former Federal prosecutor, Neama Rahmani, shared his shock on the "Hidden Killers" podcast with host Tony Brueski, exclaiming, “I couldn't believe it, Tony, when I first read it. I'm like, this has to be a joke, right?”    For those uninitiated, Asa Ellerup is demanding the return of nearly 300 guns seized from their family home. Citing them as marital property, she argues they're worth hundreds of thousands. The issue? Her husband is embroiled in a major investigation, and these weapons may well serve as crucial evidence. Tony aptly puts it, "There's no guidebook to it, but there is just human decency."    Rahmani questioned Ellerup's seemingly oblivious behavior, pointing to the lack of empathy displayed towards the victims of her husband’s alleged crimes. He goes on to detail the bizarre nature of their household - the decrepit condition of their house which many feel should be condemned, her constant altercations with the press, and her persistent legal endeavors to reclaim the aforementioned weapons.    But the depth of Heuermann’s arsenal is what particularly unnerves Rahmani. From Uzis to Tommy guns, many of these weapons not only breach New York's stringent gun laws but also hint at a deeper, more sinister narrative. As Rahmani puts it, “If she didn't know that her husband was involved in killing sex workers, I have a very hard time believing that she didn't have knowledge that he was at least seeing them and engaged in other shady activity.”    Ellerup’s defense seems fragile at best. Claiming to be out of town every time her husband committed a crime doesn’t exactly sit well. While Rahmani clarifies he isn’t accusing her, he insists that “if she was getting good advice, she would really sort of keep her mouth shut.”    The deeper question might be, is Asa Ellerup's audacious behavior a sign of sheer ignorance, or is there an underlying story yet to be unveiled? While the court of public opinion may already be casting its verdict, it's evident that this tale has more layers to be unfurled.    It begs the ponderous question, in cases so intricately woven with darkness and deception, can we ever truly discern the bystanders from the perpetrators? 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

18 Sep 20236min

Public perceptions play a crucial role in high-profile criminal cases. In the recent episode of "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski, in conversation with Robin Dreeke, retired FBI Special Agent, unveils the intricate dynamics surrounding Asa Ellerup, wife of the suspected serial killer, Rex Heuermann. Their conversation sheds light on Ellerup's peculiar requests and actions following her husband's arrest, raising unsettling questions about her relationship with Heuermann and the nature of her public appearances.    "Ever since all this transpired, we've been keenly observing his family, especially since they've been so prominently visible," Brueski remarked. One peculiar detail that emerged was Ellerup's request to retrieve the hundreds of guns confiscated from their property. "She claims they're marital property, potentially worth hundreds of thousands," Brueski notes. However, with an active investigation on her husband in the backdrop, such a demand seems out of place.    Ellerup's motivations and the nature of her relationship with Heuermann remain shrouded in mystery. "I don't find it strange that she's in need of money or is attempting to reclaim property," Brueski contemplates. "But the essence of their relationship, its intricacies, that's what's truly baffling."    Brueski further recalled a report illustrating Heuermann's concerning behavior, where he obsessively stalked a co-worker. This raises pressing questions about Ellerup's awareness or involvement in her husband's actions. Dreeke chimes in with a compelling theory: "Could it be trauma bonding?" This psychological phenomenon occurs when victims develop a sense of loyalty or affection (often mistaken for love) towards their abusers due to the cycle of violence.    Dreeke observes, "We're only getting small glimpses of her, mostly when she's raising complaints. We need to understand her motivations, her background, her life's arc." This perspective is essential, especially when public optics present her mostly as a victim.    The conversation takes a turn as they delve deeper into Heuermann's choice in Ellerup as a partner. Dreeke postulates, "To maintain his façade, he would need a partner who's non-emotional, pragmatic, and importantly, not a deep thinker." This leads to an understanding that Ellerup was potentially chosen as she was less likely to question or challenge Heuermann's behaviors.    Another intriguing revelation is Ellerup's swift decision to divorce Heuermann once his alleged crimes came to light. "Was the divorce a reaction to public disclosure, or was it her realization of his true nature?" Brueski ponders. The duo surmise that while Ellerup might be attempting to use public opinion for sympathy, her strategies might be backfiring due to a lack of experience.    Despite the numerous theories, the true nature of their relationship remains speculative. As Dreeke aptly summarizes, "It's easy to armchair quarterback this, but the optics thus far haven't been very favorable."    The "Hidden Killers" podcast episode offers a unique perspective into the complex layers surrounding high-profile criminal cases. Beyond the primary suspect, the lives and actions of their close family members also come under scrutiny, leading to a web of theories and speculations. Asa Ellerup, with her puzzling requests and opaque motivations, undoubtedly adds another layer of mystery to the enigma that is the Heuermann 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, 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

18 Sep 20237min

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

17 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

17 Sep 20237min

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

16 Sep 202310min

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

16 Sep 20238min

The enigmatic case of Rex Heuermann takes another complex twist as former FBI Special Agent and regular "Hidden Killers" contributor, Jennifer Coffindaffer, joins host Tony Brueski for a deep dive into the current speculations. Their discussion addresses the weight of eyewitness testimony, investigates family involvement, and explores the intricacies surrounding the crime scenes. As the conversation unfolds, questions on credibility, potential oversights, and inherent challenges in piecing together a decade-long puzzle emerge.    Tony Brueski initiates the dialogue, referencing John Ray, the attorney for some of the Gilgo Beach victims and for the Heuermann family. Ray has been explicit about his concerns regarding the Heuermann family, especially Asa Ellerup, suggesting a closer investigation into their potential involvement. Ray posits that this might be a "large criminal enterprise" that Heuermann is a part of. However, the attorney representing the Heuermann family was quick to dismiss these allegations, viewing them as a mere "thirst for the spotlight."    Navigating through past events, Brueski delves into the era predating Heuermann’s involvement, focusing on the unsolved mystery of the Gilgo Beach victims. The debate centers on whether it's prudent to cast a wider net of suspicion that includes Asa Ellerup and other close acquaintances of Heuermann. Coffindaffer chimes in with her seasoned perspective, affirming the need for a thorough investigation. "They would be remiss not to," she asserts, emphasizing that the authorities would undoubtedly "take a look at anyone and everyone that could have been complicit."    The speculation surrounding the crimes possibly occurring at Heuermann’s residence becomes another focal point of their conversation. While some argue for this theory, citing its simplicity, Coffindaffer reminds listeners that there's no confirmation either way. If the crimes did happen within that household, the implications would be dire. Yet, in the absence of concrete evidence, she articulates the need to explore all possible scenarios.    Shifting gears, Brueski introduces another layer of intrigue with the Julia Ann Bean case in South Carolina. A statement from Bean’s daughter, upon seeing Heuermann’s photograph, asserted that he was the last man she saw with her mother. The reliability of such eyewitness testimonies becomes a topic of contention. Coffindaffer elaborates, "Literally, the least reliable information in conducting a case is eyewitness testimony." While acknowledging Heuermann’s distinctive appearance could bolster the credibility of such claims, she reiterates the paramount importance of independent corroboration.    The broader narrative from this "Hidden Killers" episode encapsulates the challenges and intricacies inherent in high-profile investigations. Coffindaffer's insights underscore the need for meticulous scrutiny, a balanced approach, and the value of corroboration in weaving together a credible narrative. As the Rex Heuermann case continues to unravel, audiences and investigators alike are left grappling with the complexities of discerning truth amidst a sea of conjectures. 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

15 Sep 20236min

The arrest of Rex Heuermann has left both the public and his family grappling with his complex character. A recent episode of the popular podcast, "Hidden Killers," delved into the intricate web of emotions and queries surrounding his arrest, raising pertinent questions about family bonds and psychology. How do families cope when they discover the grim realities lurking beneath their loved one's facade?    "It appears that he was dad and that he was a husband," states the show's host, Tony Brueski. Indeed, this revelation is an emotional tempest for Heuermann's adult children. They have been incommunicado since his arrest. As the hosts deliberate, how do offspring reconcile with the fact that their beloved parent might have been a two-faced monster? Psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott weighs in, suggesting that "most of the time it's probably healthier for them to... cut the ties." The weight of processing two contradictory identities - a doting father and a possible criminal - might be too much for the human psyche.    The podcast further delves into the deep-seated struggle of establishing communication with a family member implicated in heinous crimes. "Is it ever a good thing to maintain that [relationship]?," Tony probes. Scott believes that while it might be therapeutic for some to confront their relative, she's skeptical of any tangible positive outcome from such a conversation. In cases where family members do engage, the conversations often revolve around processing their horror and disbelief.    However, Heuermann isn't just a case study in family dynamics; the podcast shines light on suspicions that link him to an unsolved case in South Carolina. A potential witness, the daughter of the victim, Julia Ann Bean, claims she recognized Heuermann from a photo, exclaiming, "I've seen him. That was the last man I saw with her personally." Yet, Scott cautions against relying too heavily on eyewitness testimony. She highlights that "eyewitness statements to murders are notoriously unreliable," referencing several cases where wrongful convictions occurred based on such testimonies. The reliability of this connection to Heuermann thus remains questionable.    Perhaps one of the most chilling parts of the discussion centers around Heuermann's workplace behavior. Reports suggest he preferred hiring petite women resembling the alleged victims' description. Further, Heuermann would often gleefully describe the process of "dressing the game," delighting in the shock he evoked from his colleagues. While some might see these behaviors as red flags, Scott opines that while this could be "relevant to a psychologist doing a thorough evaluation of his personality," its admissibility in court might be controversial.    As listeners grapple with the contrasting images of Heuermann - a family man versus a potential criminal mastermind - "Hidden Killers" challenges them to reflect on the complexities of human relationships. The episode underscores the fragile nature of trust, the pain of betrayal, and the struggle to understand the dark depths of those we hold dear. In a world where the lines between good and evil often blur, the revelations about Heuermann's life and character are a stark reminder of the mysteries that lie hidden beneath the surface. As investigations proceed and trials loom ahead, one can only hope that truth and justice will prevail. 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

14 Sep 20237min