

Long Island Serial Killer | The Trial Of Rex Heuermann
True Crime Today
"Catching the Long Island Serial Killer" is a gripping and emotionally charged podcast that pulls back the curtain on one of the most infamous unresolved serial murder cases in American history. Journey with us as we unravel the chilling narrative of the Gilgo Beach Killings, walking the eerie pathways where the bodies of numerous victims were discovered. We dive deep into the elusive identity of the suspected killer, Rex Heuermann, revealing his disturbing double life as a respected architect and a monster lurking in the shadows. Our heartfelt interviews with victims' families, including the brave sister of Melissa Barthelemy, expose a twisted web of torment, grief, and loss, shedding light on the emotional scars left behind. This podcast is not just about exploring the chilling mystery of the Long Island Serial Killer, but a tribute to the resilience of those who've been affected and their quest for justice. Tune in to "Catching the Long Island Serial Killer" and discover the grim secrets that Long Island has kept hidden for too long.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 20, 2023 • 6min
51: WEEK IN REVIEW-Is Heuermann Going Away For Life No Matter What?
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 our Podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 20, 2023 • 5min
51: WEEK IN REVIEW-Coffindaffer On The Challenges Of Multiple Investigations Into 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 our Podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 20, 2023 • 6min
51: WEEK IN REVIEW-Will NEW DNA From Heuerman Lead To More Murders?
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 our Podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 20, 2023 • 6min
50: WEEK IN REVIEW-Will Heuermann's Latest DNA Test Reveal More Murders?
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 our Podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for 3 days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 18, 2023 • 9min
49: Did Rex Heuermann Torment Victim's Families By Calling Them From Victim's Phones?
In a chilling episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski delved into the mind and motives of the alleged Long Island serial killer, Rex Heuermann, accused of the 2010 murders at Gilgo Beach. Joined by renowned psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott, the episode peeled back the layers of deception, sadism, and apparent normality that often cloak such predators.
Scott, who penned the book "The Minds of Mass Killers: Understanding and Interrupting The Pathway to Violence," painted a disturbing portrait of Heuermann. Beyond the brutal act of killing, Heuermann, according to Brueski, took perverse pleasure in tormenting the families of his victims. "Why on earth are you calling the family? Why are you messing with the people that are just trying to grieve?" Brueski mused.
Shedding light on this morbid curiosity, Scott explained, “Serial killers aren't killing for personal gain. They're killing for pleasure, typically sexual pleasure.” Such individuals find the suffering of others arousing, and some, like Heuermann, even derive pleasure from the emotional turmoil of grieving relatives. Heuermann's audacity was evident when he telephoned the sister of one of his victim’s multiple times to revel in her distress.
The duality in Heuermann's personality was another aspect dissected during the discussion. While some acquaintances found him likable, neighbors described him as "grumpy and menacing." This juxtaposition, Scott pointed out, is a hallmark of many serial killers, “They hide this split-off, separate personal quality very, very well.” The narcissism accompanying this is evident in the cat-and-mouse games they play, either with law enforcement, the press, or in Heuermann's case, the victim's family.
His attention to detail, Scott hypothesized, was probably a significant factor in evading capture for so long. "He was very detail-oriented when it came to what he was doing," Brueski noted, highlighting Heuermann's reported obsessive nature. This obsession, according to Scott, would have made him more meticulous about leaving no evidence behind.
The arrest finally came about when a strand of his hair, along with some from his wife, was discovered on the burlap sacks containing the bodies. Such seemingly minor mistakes eventually become instrumental in solving cases that have stymied investigators for years.
One of the most unsettling aspects of such killers is their sexual gratification from their heinous deeds. While some might jump to the conclusion that a history of sexual abuse might be behind such urges, Scott clarified that this isn't always the case. “Sometimes it's exposure to violent pornography at a young age, or even sadistic kinds of horror movies,” she added, suggesting that repeated exposure at a young age can rewire the brain.
But what of the killer's family? Heuermann had a wife and children. Was there any inkling of his double life? Drawing parallels to the infamous BTK killer, Scott postulated that such killers are experts at compartmentalization, meticulously hiding evidence and possibly leading seemingly normal domestic lives. As Brueski aptly put it, it's a case of finding "breadcrumbs" in retrospect.
The "Hidden Killers" episode underscored the complex and often baffling psyche of serial killers. As investigations unfold and more information emerges, society grapples with the uncomfortable reality that monsters can sometimes hide in plain sight, masked by a veneer of normality.
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
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 18, 2023 • 6min
41: Did The FBI Get Everything Needed From Heuermann's Home?
In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," retired FBI Special Agent and Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program, Robin Dreeke, discussed the challenging investigation surrounding Rex Heuermann. The primary topic of discussion? Heuermann's residence - a hoarder's house, and the possible treasures and trophies that might be hidden amidst the clutter.
"We are discussing Rex Heuermann right now and the hoarding house in which he once resided," began Tony Brueski, the show's host. The lingering question was whether Heuermann could hide something from his victims, perhaps a pair of shoes or other items, indicating a pattern of collecting or hoarding trophies from his misdeeds.
"I think it's also why law enforcement seems to have torn that house apart," remarked Dreeke. "They're looking for collections, trying to identify what he's had over the years. Collecting something from the victims is very high in the probability of what they're searching for to show that consistent pattern."
However, navigating a hoarder's house, especially when searching for clues or evidence, is no ordinary task. Unlike a typical crime scene, investigators must sift through random debris, attempting to find relevant evidence amidst a sea of chaos.
"It's not necessarily like the trophies are going to be standing there," Brueski commented on the daunting task. "How do you even begin to determine what is relevant?"
Dreeke painted a vivid picture, "It is incredibly challenging. When you go in with an investigative team, a search team, there's a lot of people because the volume of things to go through is insurmountable for one case agent, one team lead." He elaborated on the process, where a team lead briefs the rest on what they should be looking for, but with such a volume, it becomes an extremely tedious and lengthy task.
In relation to Heuermann's case, the challenge amplifies. Amid the vast chaos, how can an agent distinguish a pair of shoes collected as a trophy from just another pair amidst the clutter?
Additionally, the balance between conducting a thorough investigation while minimizing impact on innocent individuals poses another hurdle. "You don't want to destroy homes. You want to be respectful in areas that should have respect. It's an amazingly challenging balance," Dreeke explained.
Interestingly, the home has already been returned to Heuermann's family, prompting Brueski to question if the investigators might have missed potential evidence, given the ongoing nature of the case.
"I think it just shows where they're at in the investigation," responded Dreeke. "It indicates they got what they think they needed." Dreeke further speculated that the cooperation of Heuermann's wife could have played a role in expediting the investigation, emphasizing the importance of building a positive relationship between the investigators and the family.
The exploration into the depths of Heuermann's hoarder house is a grim reminder of the complexities law enforcement faces. Beyond the physical challenges of sifting through countless items, the psychological aspect of discerning what may be an innocent belonging from a dark trophy is a testament to the rigor and determination of investigative teams.
In this case, while the exact details remain under wraps, one thing remains clear: the investigators are confident they have what they need, making strides towards unveiling the truth behind Rex Heuermann's alleged crimes.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 17, 2023 • 13min
38: Will Heuermann's Hoarding Connect Him To More Crimes?
In a recent episode of the acclaimed podcast "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski spoke with Joseph Scott Morgan, a Forensic Scientist and Distinguished Scholar of Applied Forensics at Jacksonville State University, about a chilling topic: a murder case where the key to solving it lay buried within a hoarder's home.
The backdrop is grim. A house that once seemed to tell the tale of an obsessive collector, overflowing with a lifetime of trinkets and mementos, turned out to be a maze of potential evidence in an unsettling murder case. Brueski set the scene, recounting, "This very much looks like a hoarder house… The FBI had to rip through a hoarder house." He posed the immediate question, "What does that say to us about a personality like this and the likelihood of hoarding and if there's this proclivity to kill people?"
Morgan's response, shaped by years in forensics, painted a daunting challenge for investigators. Sifting through decades of items, every piece could either be a mere trinket or a damning piece of evidence. "It is an overwhelming task," he admitted. "Out of all the stuff in here, what's going to have value and what is not going to have value?"
Diving deeper into the psyche of a potential criminal, Morgan pondered on the strategic advantage a hoarder's home would offer. The consistent accumulation of objects could be the perfect hiding place for incriminating items. "If this guy is such a super criminal, did he look around these areas and say, well, I'm gonna hold some stuff back from these adventures that I'm going out on?" Morgan speculated.
The home, it turns out, was more than just a repository of keepsakes. "One of the victims may have met their end in the house," said Brueski, emphasizing the gravity of their discoveries. But this isn't the only case in recent memory to have investigators scratching their heads. Morgan drew attention to another chilling incident – the discovery of a dismembered body found on Fire Island in 1996, with the skull found in a different location in 2010. "Is there any indication that perhaps that skull had been held back for a protracted period of time?" he queried, noting the potential significance of weathering and tool marks on the recovered bone.
Morgan also highlighted the incredible strides in forensic technology over the years. "We did not have the capability in say, 2007 to do the things...we do now in order to put a really fine point on it and begin to try to understand origin," he said, emphasizing the role of DNA evidence in modern forensic investigations. This evolution of techniques has provided a more nuanced view of older evidence, allowing investigators to revisit cold cases with a fresh perspective.
Looking ahead, Morgan foresees even more groundbreaking advancements, particularly in the field of DNA databases and artificial intelligence. He suggested, "There's no telling how far the technology could expand just from a crime-fighting standpoint." Given the rapid pace of technological change, he believes it's only a matter of time before forensic science can draw from an even richer pool of evidence.
Closing on a light note, Brueski and Morgan mused the popular trend of at-home DNA kits, a seemingly innocent gift that could potentially uncover dark family secrets. "We thought Uncle Bernie was so nice. Turns out he killed seven hookers in Los Angeles," Brueski quipped.
Their discussion is a stark reminder of the fascinating, sometimes horrifying intersection of forensics, psychology, and crime. As technology and techniques evolve, the tools at investigators' disposal only grow more powerful, enabling them to unearth long-hidden secrets and bring justice to the fore.
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
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 17, 2023 • 5min
43: Coffindaffer On The Challenges Of Multiple Investigations Into Rex Heuermann
The chilling case of Rex Heuermann, the man suspected of being the Long Island serial killer, notably known as the Gilgo beach murderer, took center stage in a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers." Host Tony Brueski, in discussion with former FBI Special Agent and Hidden Killers Daily Contributor Jennifer Coffindaffer, delved deep into the intricate details of the investigation spanning multiple jurisdictions, states, and years.
Brueski initiated the conversation by mentioning a peculiar and disturbing detail related to Heuermann: "The strange guy down the road that has creepy dolls in his house." Alluding to a particularly eerie discovery made at the suspect's residence, Brueski expressed his apprehension, "I'd still wanna know what that's going to be, if anything, when it comes to this trial. I got bad feelings about that doll."
However, the central focus of the discussion was the overarching challenge posed by the vastness of the investigation, spread across different states and timelines. Brueski inquired, "How difficult is that from an investigative standpoint to get everybody on the same page and sharing information over such a long period of time?"
Coffindaffer elucidated the difficulties, emphasizing the distinction between cases managed exclusively by the FBI versus those that involve multiple local and state agencies. "It's a big hurdle, Tony," she affirmed. "When the bureau is in charge of something, you have one bureaucracy. But when you have dozens, potentially, of law enforcement agencies... each jurisdiction has their own level of prioritization." The challenge gets amplified, especially when investigators from different precincts have varying caseloads and methods of handling evidence.
However, Coffindaffer noted that the high-profile nature of the Heuermann case would likely galvanize various jurisdictions to collaborate effectively, given the intense public and media scrutiny. "It's going to be very interesting. It is obviously a big publicized case, and I think that's going to help motivate these jurisdictions to get these cases solved," she stated.
Brueski then raised a pivotal question regarding Heuermann's trial, questioning whether there would be multiple trials or if authorities would wait until investigations across states concluded. Coffindaffer's response provided clarity: "I think what we'll see is what we call a superseding indictment. That will happen once they have the evidence put together on Gilgo four." This essentially means that once additional evidence is pieced together linking Heuermann to further crimes, the charges against him would be updated, effectively resetting the legal clock.
Drawing attention to the intensive nature of the investigations, she elaborated, "Recall they have 12, 13 days of investigation at his house... We have the DNA profile that might link him to other LISC killings."
In terms of a timeline for Heuermann's trial, Coffindaffer estimated, "I think we're looking way out to the origin of your question, a year, two years. But they will not wait until South Carolina, Nevada, and other states conduct their investigations."
With the spotlight on the Long Island killings, it seems investigators are determined to connect the dots, provide justice to the victims, and ensure Heuermann faces the consequences if found guilty. The case, with its multi-state implications and gruesome revelations, continues to hold the public's attention and is a testament to the complexities of modern-day 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
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 17, 2023 • 9min
38: Rex Heuermann: Business By Day, Murder By Night?
In a riveting episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott. They delved into the intricate psychological workings of individuals with criminal tendencies, offering insights into how these minds operate and the subsequent implications for law enforcement.
Scott highlighted one of the most pressing concerns for law enforcement: the balance between safeguarding society and infringing on personal freedoms. "You know, because it gets into how much can we monitor people in this society?... other than really careful monitoring once someone has committed a sex crime," Scott remarked. She went on to emphasize the importance of stringent post-crime supervision, particularly for those not incarcerated, underscoring the challenges law enforcement faces when a person hasn't been charged.
The topic then transitioned to the disturbing findings at Gilgo Beach, where from 1996 to 2011, remains of nearly two dozen victims were discovered. Brueski questioned the likelihood of different murderers dumping bodies at the same site. Scott responded, "I think they've got to be looking really closely at how they can tie [Rex] if he can be connected to the other ones, because it seems statistically very odd." The mysterious scenario paints a harrowing backdrop, illuminating the dark underbelly of certain locales.
Brueski further inquired about certain objects potentially linked to criminal acts, particularly the intriguing discovery of a belt with the letters "w h" or "hm". Scott suggested that leaving behind such objects can sometimes be a deliberate "signature", a testament to the criminal's grandiosity. "It's almost this need to prove themselves as 'I'm smarter than you are and look what I can do and you can't get me'", she elaborated.
One of the most chilling aspects discussed was the ability of such individuals to compartmentalize their illicit activities. Scott shed light on this perplexing behavior: "That's one of the weirdest qualities that I see in folks like this…they just don't leak. Most normal people would leak when they're thinking about something a lot... And guys like this just really keep secrets well."
Brueski also delved into the practice of criminals keeping "trophies" from their heinous acts. Scott explained that this seemingly counterintuitive behavior stems from a complex interplay of grandiosity, narcissism, and addiction. "Even though this is poor judgment to keep this item, they do it anyway because they get such a sense of power from it," she asserted.
Scott's perspectives provide a unique window into the mind of criminals, revealing not only the twisted logic behind their actions but also the challenges faced by those who seek to bring them to justice. This episode underscores the need for ongoing research and dialogue in criminal psychology. The revelations within it serve as a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in ensuring society's safety without compromising individual freedoms.
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
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, 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

Aug 17, 2023 • 5min
41: Will NEW DNA From Heuermann Lead To More Murders?
In a recent episode of the acclaimed podcast "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski, a deep dive was taken into the ongoing investigations surrounding the infamous Rex Heuermann. With insights from retired FBI Special Agent and Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program, Robin Dreeke, the episode examined the controversial push to obtain new DNA evidence from the suspect.
Heuermann, speculated to be the 'Long Island Serial Killer,' has been a figure of intense scrutiny for law enforcement. "We're talking about, uh, Rex Heuermann and the new DNA that, uh, is going to be revealed shortly," Brueski began, setting the tone for a riveting discussion. It was recently revealed that the defense had fought against the submission of a cheek swab, claiming that the case was not robust enough to warrant such a procedure.
Drawing parallels from his time in counterintelligence, Dreeke highlighted the complexities surrounding the escalation of intrusive techniques. "You always use the least intrusive technique you can first," he stated, emphasizing the beauty of the Constitution that guards civil liberties and privacy. To escalate investigative measures, "it has to be escalated with bolted techniques," Dreeke added. He discussed the intense scrutiny that goes into escalating to sophisticated DNA tests, indicating that the mere fact that the case had reached this stage meant that lower-level evidence had already been extensively explored.
However, even in the face of mounting evidence, Dreeke was mindful of the role of defense attorneys. "Again, we're going back to a great defense attorney doing his job. Fight everything tooth and nail," he remarked. This resilience from the defense makes it all the more intriguing as to the depth and breadth of evidence the prosecutors hold.
Tony, chiming in, mentioned the rigorous standards prosecutors adhere to, stating, "Prosecutors don't like having any gaps. They don't like anything but a hundred percent on everything." The pursuit of the cheek swab, in this context, is seen as an attempt to close potential gaps and solidify the case against Heuermann.
But what remains alarming is the extent of Heuermann's suspected crimes. Beyond the three murders he's currently linked with, there's speculation of his involvement in several more. The evidence, however, seems somewhat inconsistent. The use of burlap sacks in some murders and the gruesome state of other bodies — dismembered and missing parts — has led many to question whether Heuermann's methods evolved or if multiple culprits are at play.
Brueski posed a haunting question: "Is this a beach that just has a lot of bodies from a lot of different killers? Uh, or did Rex change his ways over time?" Dreeke responded with an insight into the psychology of serial killers, noting that once they find a method that provides gratification, it's rare for them to shift radically. However, the central behaviors he pinpointed were strangulation, positioning of the bodies, and a potential foot fetish indicated by missing shoes from the crime scenes.
Despite the perplexing nature of the evidence and the varied conjectures, both hosts agreed on the consistent pattern of missing items, particularly shoes. However, as Dreeke cautioned, much of this is still conjecture. The investigation is ongoing, and until a clear conclusion is reached, the mysteries surrounding the Long Island Serial Killer continue to captivate the world.
With the new DNA revelations on the horizon, all eyes are on the unfolding case, waiting for the puzzle pieces to fall into place finally.
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
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, 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