Serial Killers
Long Island Serial Killer: The Gilgo Beach Murders (with Robert Kolker)
Feb 26, 2024
Robert Kolker, a journalist and author of 'Lost Girls: An Unsolved American Mystery,' delves into the haunting Gilgo Beach murders. He discusses the recent arrest of Rex Heuermann and the emotional toll on the families over 16 years. Kolker highlights the neglect faced by sex workers and the societal indifference surrounding the victims. He also sheds light on the personal stories of the Gilgo Four, emphasizing the need for empathy in tragedy and the systemic failures in police investigations, particularly related to the disappearance of Shannon Gilbert.
46:21
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Quick takeaways
- The arrest of Rex Heuermann in 2023 marked a crucial turning point in the long-standing investigation of the Gilgo Beach murders, emphasizing the importance of addressing systemic biases against sex workers.
- The podcast highlights the profound emotional toll on families seeking justice for their loved ones, illustrating the need for societal recognition and reforms in police conduct regarding vulnerable populations.
Deep dives
The Gilgo Beach Serial Killings Unveiled
The arrest of Rex Heuerman in July 2023 marked a significant breakthrough in the long-unsolved Gilgo Beach serial killings, which had terrorized Long Island for over a decade. These crimes involved the remains of several women, all of whom worked as escorts, being discovered along Ocean Parkway. The case had been plagued by police incompetence and indifference towards the victims, leading to years of frustration for the families seeking closure. Victims like Maureen Brainerd Barnes, Amber Costello,Melissa Barthelemy, and Megan Waterman had their stories often overlooked, demonstrating a societal bias against those involved in sex work.
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