A judge in Suffolk County, New York, has approved the use of DNA evidence that prosecutors believe will link Rex Heuermann to six of the seven Gilgo Beach murders.
The defense opposed the inclusion of this evidence, claiming it was obtained through a new DNA method called whole genome sequencing, which is relatively unfamiliar in New York courts, as per News10 ABC.
The defense argued that the method, created by Astrea Forensics, a company from California, would breach New York public health regulations since Astrea Forensics lacks a permit in the state.
“Any analysis done by Astrea Forensics is illegal and should be considered presumptively unreliable,” stated the defense memo. “To rule otherwise would ignore and negate the explicit provisions of New York State public health law.”
Prosecutors, however, argued that the technology is rooted in widely recognized scientific methods.
This matter first arose during a summer hearing when prosecutors sought to reject the defense’s objection, stressing that the methodology is “widely accepted within the scientific community.”
They also argued that the method is utilized in a broad range of scientific and forensic applications.
“We won; the evidence is admissible,” Suffolk District Attorney Ray Tierney said after the court appearance, Newsday reports.
“Full speed ahead for trial.”
In July 2023, Heuermann was apprehended in Manhattan for the murders of Melissa Barthelemy, 24; Megan Waterman, 22; and Amber Lynn Costello, 27, occurring in 2009 and 2010.
In January 2024, he was charged with Brainard-Barnes’ murder.
As CrimeOnline previously reported, officials said Brainard-Barnes and the three other victims were found wrapped in burlap and buried near each other at New York’s Gilgo Beach. All four women were reportedly advertising as sex workers when they vanished.
In June 2024, Heuermann was charged with the murders of Sandra Costilla and Jessica Taylor. In December 2024, he was indicated for the murder of Valerie Mack.
Meanwhile, the judge’s decision will mark the first time the DNA technique, which linked hairs from six of the seven victims to Heuermann, will be allowed in New York courts.
“We were able to prevail for one simple reason: The science was on our side,” Tierney added.
Heuermann, who denies the allegations, remains behind bars without bail.
Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo: Rex Heuermann/Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office via AP]
