In a dramatic twist to the Gilgo Beach murder case, Rex Heuermann's defense attorney, Michael Brown, suggested outside the Suffolk County Supreme Court on Wednesday that the former police chief, James Burke, could be linked to the infamous serial killings.

During the media address, Brown highlighted the alleged dubious past of Burke, who previously led the investigation into the murders. “There were numerous leads that came into the Suffolk County Police Department, suggesting that Chief Burke was involved in this," Brown claimed. Burke's criminal record includes convictions for assault, public lewdness, and unlawful solicitation.

“This very checkered past and criminal activity of the chief of police who was running the investigation is problematic for us," Brown stated, pointing out that Burke had prevented FBI involvement in the case, which could have brought additional expertise to the investigation.

The hearing on Wednesday was a continuation of the judicial process to sift through potential evidence in the case against Heuermann, who is accused of murdering four women over a decade ago. Their bodies were found wrapped in burlap on the desolate stretches of Gilgo Beach. Heuermann, dressed in a black suit and navy tie, was reported to be attentive during the proceedings, which involved discussions on the extensive amount of evidence, including a 12-terabyte hard drive related to nuclear DNA and digital extractions from devices seized from his residence.

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney disclosed significant progress in evidence processing: "Just today alone, we provided the Barnes missing persons investigation from the NYPD which is approximately 2,500 pages," he said, indicating the scale of the investigation.

Heuermann's next court appearance is scheduled for June 18, with a strict deadline set by Judge Timothy Mazzie for all discovery materials to be submitted by the end of July.

The case continues to unfold with high stakes and intense public interest, as the community seeks closure for the tragic deaths that have haunted Gilgo Beach for years.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free:
Follow Our Other Cases:
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, 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

In an exclusive interview with Eyewitness News, Donna Sturman, the former executive assistant of accused Long Island serial killer Rex Heuermann, has broken her silence, expressing her shock and disbelief at the accusations made against her former boss.

Sturman, who worked for Heuermann from 2017 to 2018 at his architectural office in Midtown, revealed her deep-seated trauma over the revelations, stating, "It's traumatizing. It's so unbelievable."

Recalling her tenure with Heuermann, Sturman highlighted the irony of DNA evidence linking him to the Gilgo Beach murders, citing a discarded piece of pizza crust she used to buy him. "It always kind of bothered me that he didn't eat the crust," she remarked.

Despite her years of working closely with Heuermann, Sturman admitted she never imagined him being accused of such heinous crimes. "To me, he was always so respectful," she stated, reflecting on her perception of her former employer.

Sturman vividly recounted the moment she learned of Heuermann's arrest last summer, describing the shock and surreal experience of seeing his name associated with the allegations. "Honestly, it was like moving in slow motion," she recalled.

Even witnessing the surveillance footage of Heuermann's arrest, his subsequent mugshot, and court appearances left Sturman overwhelmed. "It's seriously traumatizing," she emphasized.

Reflecting on her decision to work for Heuermann despite initial misgivings, Sturman revealed financial difficulties led her to accept the position. However, she never imagined the magnitude of the situation she would find herself in years later.

Sturman also shed light on her labor dispute with Heuermann, stating he never paid her overtime or vacation time. Despite filing a complaint with the New York State Department of Labor and winning a judgment of $20,000 in lost wages, Heuermann has failed to pay her to this day.

While Eyewitness News reached out to Heuermann's attorney regarding the unpaid wages, they declined to comment on the matter, leaving Sturman still grappling with the aftermath of her association with the accused serial killer.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free:
Follow Our Other Cases:
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, 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 

Asa Ellerup, the estranged wife of alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann, has reaffirmed her belief in her husband's innocence, according to a statement released by her attorney on Wednesday.

Heuermann, a former New York architect, faces charges in connection with the murders of four women whose remains were discovered near Gilgo Beach in December 2010. Despite the severity of the accusations, Ellerup maintains her husband's innocence, regularly visiting him in custody.

"I will listen to all of the evidence and withhold judgment until the end of trial," Ellerup stated through her attorney, Bob Macedonio. "I have given him the benefit of the doubt, as we all deserve."

Expressing sympathy for the victims and their families, Ellerup emphasized her belief in Heuermann's innocence, stating, "Nobody deserves to die in that manner."

Heuermann, aged 60, has been charged with the murders of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Megan Waterman, Amber Costello, and Melissa Barthelemy, all of whom were escorts on Long Island. He pleaded not guilty to these charges.

Macedonio explained Ellerup's decision to release a statement, stating that she visited Heuermann several times since the last indictment and wished to reiterate her belief in his innocence.

Prosecutors allege that Heuermann's wife and children were out of town when Brainard-Barnes disappeared and was killed, fitting a pattern where Heuermann was allegedly alone when the other three victims were killed.

Substantial DNA evidence has been collected in the case since Heuermann's arraignment, including hair found on the belt buckle securing Brainard-Barnes' body, which matched Ellerup's genetic profile. Similar DNA links were found at other crime scenes, involving Heuermann's wife and daughter, who are not considered suspects.

Despite these developments, a trial date has not been scheduled for Heuermann, who continues to maintain his innocence.

The case has garnered significant attention due to the gruesome nature of the crimes and the subsequent legal proceedings against Heuermann, a father of two who has denied all charges against him.

As the investigation continues and legal proceedings unfold, the community awaits further updates on the case, hoping for justice for the victims and closure for their families.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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

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:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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  

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:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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  

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:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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  

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:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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  

In a world where legal intricacies intertwine with chilling criminal allegations, how does the concept of spousal privilege play into the investigation of heinous crimes? This question forms the core of a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," where host Tony Brueski discusses the complex case surrounding alleged serial killer Rex Heuermann with former felony prosecutor and attorney Eric Faddis.

The conversation delves into the intriguing situation of Asa Ellerup, Heuermann's wife, who has yet to divorce him. Brueski probes whether Ellerup's reluctance to end her marriage could be a strategic move to maintain spousal privilege, potentially shielding her from testifying against Heuermann. Faddis explains, "Typically, in many states, if the couple is married, the wife wouldn't have to testify under oath against her husband."

However, Faddis also highlights exceptions to this rule, such as the 'forfeiture by wrongdoing' clause, which could apply if Ellerup had any nefarious involvement in Heuermann's alleged crimes. The discussion also explores the differences between involvement and knowledge in the context of legal responsibility. Faddis points out, "Usually just having knowledge of some wrongdoing doesn't necessarily expose someone to criminal liability," but he also mentions scenarios where knowledge could implicate someone, such as obstruction or involuntary homicide theories.

Brueski raises the possibility of Ellerup having knowledge of Heuermann's alleged actions, whether it be his infidelities or more sinister activities. Faddis agrees this is a complex legal area, adding, "If you know that your husband is likely to kill other sex workers because he's done it in the past and you say nothing, does that begin to look like obstruction?"

The discussion concludes with speculation about ongoing investigations. Faddis believes prosecutors are likely exploring all avenues covertly, keeping a close eye on Ellerup and her connections. He asserts, "Prosecutors aren't just sitting on their hands; they're probably covertly exploring any investigative avenues they can."

As the case against Rex Heuermann unfolds, the role of Asa Ellerup and the application of spousal privilege remain critical areas of interest. With new developments possibly on the horizon, one must ask: What secrets lie behind the veil of a marriage entangled in a web of alleged crimes?
 
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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

Is it possible for a predator to hide in plain sight within a community, evading law enforcement for years? This is the central question in the case against Rex Heuermann, the man accused of being the Long Island serial killer, as discussed on the "Hidden Killers" podcast with host Tony Brueski and former felony prosecutor and attorney Eric Faddis.

The case has garnered significant attention due to the harrowing testimonies of alleged survivors. In a recent development, two women, Taylor and Mary Poe, have come forward with chilling accounts of their encounters with Heuermann. Taylor, a bottle girl in 2010, claimed she had to use a taser to escape from Heuermann, while Poe alleged she was shot in the neck by him and miraculously survived.

Brueski humorously dismisses any notion of mistaken identity, stating, "Rex Heuermann is not a guy that you really would confuse with many other people." Faddis, lending his legal perspective, emphasizes the importance of these testimonies for the prosecution. "They're going to draw parallels, they're going to show overlap, and they're going to tie all of this together in a pattern of behavior for Rex Heuermann over the course of years," he explains.

The discussion also delves into the societal factors that may have allowed Heuermann to operate undetected. Faddis points out that predators like Heuermann target vulnerable communities who are averse to law enforcement, making them easy targets. He also notes Heuermann's use of resources, such as burner phones, to cover his tracks.

As Brueski and Faddis unravel the complexities of the case, the question of how many other victims might be out there lingers. The podcast sheds light on the grim reality of predators exploiting societal stigmas and legal loopholes. As the case against Heuermann continues to build, one can't help but wonder: How many more stories are yet to be told, and what will it take to bring such predators to justice?
 
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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

Can a series of accounts and testimonies truly capture the essence of a criminal's character? This intriguing question forms the core of a recent "Hidden Killers" podcast episode, where hosts Tony Brueski and Robin Dreeke, a retired FBI Special Agent, delve into the chilling accounts surrounding Rex Heuermann. Known for his involvement in the Gilgo Beach murders, Heuermann's character is further scrutinized through new testimonies, shedding light on his alleged depravities and the system's response to such individuals.

Brueski introduces two new accounts, one from a woman named Taylor, a nightclub bottle girl who narrowly escaped an assault from Heuermann in 2010. Dreeke, with his expertise in behavioral analysis, is unsurprised by these revelations, describing Heuermann's actions as "pure depravity." He notes that Heuermann's distinctive appearance made him memorable, worsening his situation as more victims come forward.

The conversation then shifts to the systemic response to such criminals. Brueski highlights the efforts of Attorney Ray, who is bringing new information to light, often more than the official investigation. They discuss the importance of addressing the victims' families' needs and the challenges in the justice system in dealing with such complex cases.

Another account mentioned by Brueski involves Mary Poe, a sex worker who alleged an encounter with Heuermann in 1994, resulting in her being shot. This account, backed by medical records, adds to the growing list of allegations against Heuermann. Dreeke emphasizes the need for thorough investigation, questioning why Heuermann's estranged wife, who is now making a documentary, has not been more scrutinized.

The episode takes an interesting turn when discussing Heuermann's mental state in jail. Despite the heinous nature of his crimes, he receives counseling for depression, prompting a debate on the ethics and necessity of providing mental health support to accused criminals. Dreeke sees this as a testament to the quality of the American jail system, while Brueski expresses frustration that such resources are allocated to someone accused of such grave crimes.

In conclusion, the episode of "Hidden Killers" brings to light the complex dynamics of criminal behavior, victim impact, and the justice system's role in addressing these issues. It paints a picture of a system striving to balance justice and humanity, even in the face of profound depravity.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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

What secrets can lie in the shadows of a relationship, especially when one partner is a suspected serial killer? This question is the focus of a "Hidden Killers" podcast episode, where host Tony Brueski and guest Bob Motta, a defense attorney and host of "Defense Diaries," discuss the chilling case of Rex Heuermann. Attorney John Ray, representing some of the LISK victims, brings forward detailed affidavits describing Heuermann's alleged violent actions dating back to the 1990s.
Accounts from survivors like Taylor, a club bottle girl, and Mary Poe, a sex worker who survived a gunshot from Heuermann, paint a haunting picture of the suspect. Motta compares Heuermann to infamous serial killer John Wayne Gacy, noting their similar predatory behavior and the number of people who narrowly escaped their clutches. "He gives me like the biggest Gacy vibe," Motta observes, emphasizing the grave nature of Heuermann's case.
Brueski and Motta delve into why many of Heuermann's alleged victims, mainly sex workers, might not have reported their encounters to law enforcement. Motta suggests that fear of prosecution and societal stigma could have silenced these individuals, allowing Heuermann to continue his alleged crimes undetected.
The conversation shifts to Asa Heuermann, Rex's spouse, with Brueski and Motta speculating on her possible knowledge of his activities. They discuss the complexities of spousal privilege in legal proceedings and whether Asa could be compelled to testify against her husband. Motta raises the point, "did the wife know?" highlighting a common curiosity in cases involving married suspects.
The episode ends with Motta and Brueski pondering the potential outcomes of the documentary Asa Heuermann is filming. They question whether it could inadvertently reveal incriminating evidence against her or her husband, drawing a parallel to Robert Durst's infamous confession.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free:
Follow Our Other Cases:
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