Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

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Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers episodes

  • WEEK IN REVIEW-What Rex Heuermann's Alleged 'Sex Parties' Tell Us About His Penchant For Deviant Behavior
    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
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    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
    11 min
  • WEEK IN REVIEW-How Could Gilgo Beach Killer Live A Normal Life Amongst Us?
    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
    12 min
  • Religious Trauma Pt 4, How The LDS Church & Others Like Them Create An Environment Ripe For Abusers To Thrive
    Is there a dark side to certain religious environments that fosters an atmosphere conducive to heinous crimes?
    The latest episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, hosted by Tony Brueski, dove into the murky waters of religious trauma, high control religions, and the association of certain crimes to specific religious communities. Dr. Laura Anderson, a psychotherapist and religious trauma consultant, shared her expert insights, shedding light on some disturbing patterns that have emerged over the years.
     
     Brueski brought up a disturbing trend he's noticed, particularly within the LDS (Latter-day Saint) community. "If you just look statistically at the amount of people who are members of the LDS church, versus the amount of major crimes and horrible things that we're hearing... It's very much out of whack proportionally," he expressed. Citing numerous cases, including the infamous Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell case, Brueski questioned the role of the church's environment in creating such narratives.
     
     Anderson's response was thoughtful but alarming. While she clarified that she could not diagnose anyone outside her professional circle, she did comment on the behaviors. She stated, "...these are natural environments for sociopathic and psychopathic behaviors... environments that are prime for crimes for narcissism, or at least narcissistic behavior." She further expanded on the environment cultivated within certain religious sects, noting that such environments create "boxes" that get smaller and more constrictive, often defined by a select few, leading to warped understandings of ethics and morality.
     
     Beyond the LDS, Anderson pointed out the prevalent issues within other religious groups, such as the Independent Fundamentalist Baptist group, which the Duggar family is associated with, and other sects. Many of these groups operate under a mandate of "dominion" or domination, believing they have a divine right to have control over various sectors of society. This mindset, combined with a belief in persecution, creates a fertile ground for cognitive distortions, allowing for atrocious acts in the name of God.
     
     One of the most compelling points of the conversation was the issue of oversight and accountability. Brueski posed a pertinent question, "Are we at a point where we really need to re-examine our laws and the protections that religious organizations have?" Many religious groups have managed to bypass scrutiny due to the separation of church and state, but the consequences of this lack of oversight can be dire.
     
     Anderson emphasized the intricate relationship between politics and religion in the U.S., suggesting that legislators are well aware of the potential fallout of targeting one religious group: "...they know that at some point that's going to be turned on them because the same standard is going to be applied to them." The financial implications, the potential backlash, and the ties between religious organizations and political entities make this a complex issue to navigate.
     
     The discussion between Brueski and Anderson serves as a stark reminder of the potential pitfalls that can arise when religious environments become too insular, encouraging members to commit heinous acts in the name of faith.
     
     But here's a question to ponder: If our society is hesitant to critically examine religious practices due to fears of persecution or backlash, where do we draw the line between faith and fanaticism?
    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, 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
    13 min
  • Religious Trauma Pt 3, How Religious Trauma Brainwashes Women Into Thinking Abuse Is 'Godly'
    Is it possible that the very institutions meant to bring solace and guidance can be the ones causing distress and anguish? This was one of the many thought-provoking questions posed on a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," a popular podcast hosted by Tony Brueski. In this intriguing episode, Brueski is joined by Dr. Laura Anderson, a seasoned psychotherapist and religious trauma consultant.
     
     Religious trauma, though often overlooked, is becoming a topic of increasing concern in both therapeutic and societal circles. Brueski dives right in, referencing high-profile cases of religious abuse, such as the one surrounding Josh Duggar. These harrowing stories exemplify how deeply religious beliefs, often distorted and extreme, can damage individuals and entire families.
     
     For those outside these situations, it seems almost straightforward: "Why wouldn't you do things this way?" Brueski poses. Yet, Anderson's in-depth explanation reveals a complex web of indoctrination, fear, and a loss of self. Drawing a comparison between high-control religions and domestic abuse, Anderson underscores the startling similarities. In both scenarios, the "perpetrator or abuser…seek to take away your independence, your autonomy, your sense of self identity, and they replace it with theirs."
     
     The case of Anna Duggar, for instance, serves as a poignant example. Despite her high-profile family, Anna remains deeply entangled in a cycle of abuse, exacerbated by her lack of education, lack of means for self-sufficiency, and the powerful religious beliefs of both her family and in-laws. As Anderson aptly puts it, for Anna and many others, "Where is she going to go? What is she going to do?" Escape is not as straightforward as it might seem.
     
     One of Anderson's main therapeutic goals is to help individuals reconnect with their own voice. Questions like "Who am I?" and "What do I really think?" can be life-changing for someone who's been trained to suppress their individuality and desires.
     
     Anderson also highlights how religious institutions, and many groups outside religion, prey on innate human desires for certainty, stability, and safety. By presenting a clear dichotomy of 'good' and 'bad,' such institutions can manipulate and control adherents through fear, particularly the fear of severe consequences like eternal damnation.
     
     However, why this desire for control? Brueski questions. Anderson posits that, in many cases, it's a blend of the quest for power in patriarchal systems and the longing for safety and certainty. She recalls reading about the origins of world religions and how they often evolve similarly: a need for understanding and certainty leads to rule creation, which then spirals into further rules to solidify power structures.
     
     Religion, at its core, can offer solace, purpose, and community. However, as Brueski reminisces about his childhood experiences with religion—like coloring disturbing biblical scenes in Sunday school—it becomes evident that these teachings, especially when misinterpreted or taught with a malicious agenda, can have lasting traumatic effects.
     
     So, as listeners absorb the revelations from this enlightening discussion, another question emerges: How can society differentiate between genuine spiritual guidance and manipulative control? As episodes like this on "Hidden Killers" unveil the dark corners of faith, it's a question we should all consider.
    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, 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
    10 min
  • Religious Trauma Pt2, How the IBLP Created A Culture Of Hidden Abuse
    Can deeply entrenched religious beliefs inadvertently shield and even perpetuate abuse? This perplexing question arose during a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers Podcast" with Tony Brueski. He invited Dr. Laura Anderson, a prominent psychotherapist and religious trauma consultant, to demystify the layers surrounding religious trauma.
     
     In the discussion, Dr. Anderson sheds light on a crucial distinction: "Trauma is not the thing that happens to us, but it's the way that our body responds or our nervous system responds to the thing that happens to us." This means that while abuse might be the root cause, it doesn't necessarily equate to trauma. Instead, trauma stems from how individuals internalize and react to abusive incidents.
     
     One could wonder, how do religious organizations inadvertently or even actively contribute to this dynamic? Dr. Anderson pointed to several red flags typical of high-control religious groups that can pave the way for trauma. These range from isolation, where individuals are urged to associate only with those deemed appropriate by the religious hierarchy, to strict information control, where members are told what they can read, watch, or listen to.
     
     Furthermore, in many high-control religions, rigid definitions of gender and sexuality exist, typically placing men in power roles above women. This often leads to abusive behaviors, backed by justifications of doing it "in the name of God." Spiritual abuse takes many forms, with threats and accusations being commonplace. For instance, if one strays from the religious path, they may be warned that they are now susceptible to harm, both in the physical and spiritual realms. One stark example is Scientology's "fair game" concept, where those who leave the Church become targets for various forms of harassment.
     
     However, the insidiousness of religious trauma often lies in its subtlety. As Dr. Anderson states, "Oftentimes there's consequences for saying no to those things." A church's seemingly benign requirements, like donating a certain amount or adhering to specific dress codes, may seem trivial at first. Yet, over time, these "tiny things" accumulate, gradually chipping away at an individual's autonomy and identity.
     
     Taking a more specific example, Brueski brought up the controversial case of the Duggar family, members of the Independent Fundamentalist Baptist church. The incident involved Josh Duggar's sexual abuse of his sisters, with his parents, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, seemingly dismissing the severity of the situation. One might ask: how could seemingly moral parents act this way, seemingly prioritizing their faith over the well-being of their children?
     
     Dr. Anderson's answer delves deep into the foundational beliefs of many high-control religions: the idea that humans are born sinful or evil. In this perspective, sin is expected, and when one sins, it's a "God problem" and not necessarily a legal issue. Dr. Anderson elaborates, "When you sin, then it's a God problem. It's not a legal problem." Consequently, the solution is often sought internally within the religious community, sidelining the legal and societal implications of the abusive action.
     
     This protective stance isn't unique to the Duggar case. From the Catholic Church to the Southern Baptist Church, many religious institutions have grappled with scandals, often opting to "deal with it in-house" rather than confront the issue openly.
     
     Concluding their discussion, Brueski and Anderson highlighted the broader implications of religious trauma, urging society to be vigilant and question the structures that may enable such behaviors.
     
     So, we return to our initial inquiry with a twist: how can society recognize and address religious trauma effectively while respecting the sacredness of individual beliefs?

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    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
    11 min
  • Will Alex Murdaugh Ever Admit Guilt for Murders Or Deny Till His Own Death?
    Could Alex Murdaugh, embroiled in scandal and previously convicted of heinous crimes, truly be on the verge of a retrial because of alleged jury tampering? And if so, what might his demeanor and the actions of his legal team tell us about the forthcoming legal battles?
     
     In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delved deep into the intricacies of Alex Murdaugh's case alongside Forensic Psychologist Joni Johnston. Murdaugh's potential journey to a new murder trial has been ignited not because of his direct actions against others, but due to the strong indications of jury tampering, which if proven could indeed grant him a new trial.
     
     "He seems to be like a very happy, easygoing man in jail," Brueski noted, commenting on the startling demeanor Murdaugh has displayed since his incarceration. His seeming joviality behind bars has left many wondering about his mental state, especially given the gravity of his crimes and the possibility of him spending the rest of his life in prison.
     
     Johnston weighed in on the issue, explaining, "I think a couple of potential scenarios kind of pop up for me. One is… for somebody like Alex Murdaugh, who his entire life has been able to get out of things basically… I think I would imagine and I believe that he is still thinking, I'm going to find a way to get out of here."
     
     Much of the conversation revolved around the Murdaugh family legacy, its importance, and how it might be influencing Alex's behavior now. According to Johnston, image, power, and maintaining the reputation of the Murdaugh name have always been paramount, potentially influencing Alex's actions and choices. Even in prison, he could be positioning himself as a dominant figure, holding onto that ingrained need for control.
     
     Brueski raised the question of strategic positioning by Murdaugh's legal team. Could they be setting the stage for a new trial, attempting to paint Alex in a more favorable light, despite the seemingly insurmountable task ahead? "Right now, I think they're focused on the message that the criminal justice system isn't fair," Johnston explained. The essence is to present Murdaugh as a victim of a system that has been manipulated against him, capitalizing on any evidence that supports this narrative.
     
     This possible strategy has roots in the revelations about Murdaugh's financial crimes. During his murder trial, he openly admitted guilt to several of these charges. This confession was shocking, and as Brueski mentioned, it played a significant role in the jury's perception of him. The public revelation of his wrongdoings could potentially be used to his advantage in a new trial. Without the shocks of his financial misdeeds, the narrative might change, focusing solely on the murder allegations.
     
     Johnston agreed, emphasizing that while the overall case against Murdaugh is challenging to fight, his legal team will likely be very strategic. A potential focus could be to argue that Alex Murdaugh has been unfairly targeted and victimized due to his prominence.
     
     Both Brueski and Johnston contemplated the next steps for the defense. Would they present the same narrative, or add new chapters to Murdaugh's story to boost his defense? And while speculations abound, Johnston highlighted the insurmountable evidence against Murdaugh, chiefly the video proof that placed him at the scene of the crime after having lied about it for nearly two years.
     
     In conclusion, the case against Alex Murdaugh is riddled with complexities, from the crimes he committed to his family legacy and the potential for a new trial. As Brueski aptly put it, "Only Alex knows" the whole truth.
     
     With the possibility of a new trial and endless speculation around it, one lingering question remains: Will Alex Murdaugh ever reveal the full truth, or will he take it to his grave?
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    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

    12 min
  • Will Alex Murdaugh Find a Road To Exoneration For The Murder Of His Wife And Son?
    In a revealing discussion on the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski and psychotherapist Shavaun Scott delved deep into the complexities surrounding the potential re-trial of Alex Murdaugh. The conversation spotlighted the controversial allegations of jury tampering linked with the clerk of court.
     
     "If the allegations are true," Brueski began, "Alex Murdaugh is entitled to a new trial." However, he emphasized the procedural labyrinth this case must navigate before reaching that point. The psychological toll of the previous trial was evident in Scott's commentary, "Oh my gosh, what a traumatic, awful trial that was for everybody."
     
     The spotlight on Murdaugh during the trial was intense, with the prosecution painting a picture of a man with questionable financial activities. As Brueski put it, the perception of Murdaugh played a significant role in his conviction. Removing the shock element from the information revealed in the initial trial might alter the jury's perception in a potential new trial. "Take all that out of the equation," Brueski mused, "If that was not there, I think there is an argument to be made that maybe he would not have been convicted of murdering his wife and son."
     
     Despite the past surprises in the trial, including Murdaugh's change in testimony, a fresh trial wouldn't necessarily harbor the same dramatic revelations. Brueski pondered on the possibility of portraying Murdaugh in a different light, asking if "too much damage [had] already been done."
     
     Scott acknowledged the need for different strategies if a new trial were to occur, but she also touched on the defining moments of the first trial, such as the audio recordings. For her, those revelations were the "nail in the coffin."
     
     Brueski raised a captivating point about a potential new defense for Murdaugh, speculating if he could claim he remained silent during the first trial to protect his family from further harm. Yet, there remains a haunting sentiment, as Scott revealed, "I've always felt like there are still secrets, there are still missing pieces."
     
     A peculiar aspect of the conversation was Murdaugh's prison behavior. His nonchalant demeanor behind bars raises questions about his mindset. As Scott articulated, "He's waiting for the cell door to open and he can walk back out and go back to Moselle and live his life." Such an attitude from a man facing grave allegations and possible life imprisonment is indeed bewildering.
     
     Scott theorized that Murdaugh’s behavior could stem from psychopathic tendencies, suggesting that he processes reality differently than most. “People with psychopathic tendencies don't feel fear the way the rest of us do,” she remarked. This might explain Murdaugh’s calm and collected demeanor even in confinement. Furthermore, his actions, like hosting a birthday party for his deceased son while in prison, veer on the side of bizarre.
     
     Brueski, offering a unique perspective, mused if Murdaugh had come to terms with his imprisonment long before it occurred. He drew a parallel with someone in an abusive relationship, eventually making peace with its inevitable end.
     
     As the conversation wrapped up, both Brueski and Scott seemed to agree on one thing: even if Murdaugh manages to clear his name concerning the murders, the financial crimes would likely ensure he remains imprisoned. The question that then arises: is Murdaugh more focused on cleaning his reputation, rather than securing freedom?
     
     As the debate around Alex Murdaugh's potential re-trial intensifies, one can't help but ponder: will a new trial unveil the complete truth, or are some secrets destined to remain buried forever?
    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, 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

    11 min
  • Religious Trauma Pt 1, How the Insidious Religious Trauma Starts
    Religion is often viewed as a sanctuary for the soul, a haven where one can find solace, guidance, and a sense of belonging. But what if the very institutions people turn to for peace and understanding are the sources of their pain? A recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast with Tony Brueski delves into the delicate topic of religious trauma, shedding light on a subject often cloaked in silence and ambiguity.
     
     "A lot of us brought up in churches and religious organizations, and we're always kind of taught. No, this is a good, safe place," Brueski began. Yet, he quickly pointed out the contrast, highlighting that for many individuals, their religious experiences are far from serene, and for some, they're outright traumatic. The concern? How society tends to dismiss the questionable actions or practices under the umbrella of "religion," hindering a closer scrutiny.
     
     Dr. Laura Anderson, a licensed psychotherapist, trauma resolution coach, and religious trauma consultant, joined Brueski to shed light on this often-overlooked subject. Anderson herself has a personal history with religious trauma, growing up in what she refers to as a "high control religion" and having a father who was a director at a fundamentalist church camp. Her deep-rooted experience within the religious realm, combined with her professional expertise, makes her perspective invaluable.
     
     "Religion has colloquially and culturally been looked at as a very pro-social factor," she explained. Anderson draws attention to the fact that religious trauma is not always about overtly heinous acts like clergy sexual abuse. More often, it's about how religion influences one's identity, worldview, and daily interactions. The trauma arises when these institutions, which are meant to provide safety and support, turn into sources of persistent harm.
     
     It's vital to understand that the conversation is not about disparaging religion as a whole. As Brueski emphasizes, this is about recognizing the darker underbelly that can exist within religious spaces. "Let's be more aware of what we are accepting and saying is safe and okay before we just say it's safe and okay because someone's holding a cross," he noted.
     
     The danger is when religion becomes a tool of manipulation or grooming. This grooming isn't just about sexual misconduct; it often extends to behavioral control, justified under the guise of "divine directive." When individuals are told they're acting in line with God's will or a higher power, it creates a powerful, often unbreakable, hold on their actions and beliefs.
     
     Anderson's insight on how religious trauma manifests is particularly telling. She categorizes it under "complex trauma," which differs from the single incident traumas commonly associated with PTSD. Complex trauma encompasses persistent threats and emotional overwhelm that seem inescapable over a long duration. The effects? A myriad of physiological and psychological issues ranging from hypervigilance, social phobias, and autoimmune disorders to anxiety, depression, and OCD.
     
     For those wondering if they might have experienced religious trauma, Anderson suggests looking into symptoms of complex PTSD. The key is recognizing that the trauma doesn't vanish just because one has ceased to believe or left a particular institution.
     
     Religious trauma is an intricate issue that touches on the very core of one's identity and belief system. The conversation between Brueski and Anderson serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of critically examining all institutions, including religious ones, ensuring that they serve as genuine sanctuaries and not sources of distress.
     
     In a world where faith and spirituality play such pivotal roles, isn't it time we confront the shadow side of religion and ask: how can we make religious spaces genuinely safe for all?
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    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
    12 min
  • How Could Gilgo Beach Killer Live a Normal Life Amongst Us?
    Rex Heuermann, a prime suspect in the notorious Gilgo Beach murder case, is once again under scrutiny, and this time, so is his wife. According to fresh allegations, not only did Heuermann have deep ties to the deaths of several sex workers, but he might have led a darker life than anyone imagined. So, what shadows did the walls of the Heuermann household hide, and how much of it was visible to his wife, Asa?
     
     The latest revelations paint a picture of Heuermann as a man deeply involved in a swinger-style sex life dating back to 1996. As discussed on the "Hidden Killers" podcast with Tony Brueski and Forensic Psychologist Joni Johnston, some former sex workers claimed to recognize Heuermann, describing him as an easily distinguishable figure. More chillingly, they described occasions when he would take them to his house, specifically to the basement, for sex parties, while his wife stayed upstairs. As Brueski highlighted, "But the allegations are that she was very aware of what was going on."
     
     Asa Heuermann has thus far claimed ignorance of any sinister activities. Johnston commented on the distinction between knowing of her husband's sexual escapades and associating him with torturing and murdering women. "There is obviously a huge gap between knowing that your husband is a swinger... and then all of a sudden, thinking that your husband is torturing and luring, you know, sex workers and then torturing and murdering them," she remarked. But the continuous waves of allegations are casting a shadow of doubt on Asa's claims.
     
     A significant point of debate is the duration of Rex Heuermann's deviant behavior. The general consensus among many was that his crimes were limited to the 2000-2010 timeframe. However, Johnston expressed skepticism, hinting at the possibility of Heuermann’s activities spanning a much broader timeline. She remarked on the concerning behaviors before and after the known period, indicating that the investigation is still in its early stages.
     
     The role and knowledge of Asa Heuermann are undeniably under the microscope. Yet, connecting the dots between her being aware of her husband's swinger lifestyle to the assumption of her knowledge about his alleged crimes is a leap. Both Brueski and Johnston emphasize the importance of evidence before drawing conclusions, especially in a case as convoluted as this.
     
     But how does someone like Rex Heuermann, if guilty, live such a dual life? He was, after all, a successful architect with a family. Johnston shed light on the psychology of such individuals, comparing it to the different roles people adopt in various situations but amplified manifold. The ability to compartmentalize, rationalize, and dehumanize are traits that potentially allowed him to detach from his alleged heinous crimes.
     
     The revelations surrounding the Heuermanns have caused a ripple in the world of crime investigation. While the evidence will ultimately decide Rex Heuermann's fate, the testimonies and debates provide a disturbing insight into the depths of human nature.
     
     This brings us to the chilling question: In the midst of such revelations, can we ever truly know the people closest to us?
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    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
    12 min
  • What Rex Heuermann's Alleged 'Sex Parties' tell Us About His Penchant For Deviant Behavior
    When the line between our darkest imaginations and reality blurs, how do we discern the truth? Recent allegations unearthed on the podcast "Hidden Killers" hosted by Tony Brueski raise this very question, bringing to the fore claims about Rex Heuermann, a figure mired in controversy, and pointing to a grim underground world of sinister liaisons.
     
     Defense attorney John Ray, representing some of the victims from Gilgo Beach, unveiled claims connecting Heuermann to sexual escapades that ranged from swinger parties to other non-conventional acts. These allegations do more than just paint a scandalous picture of Heuermann; they potentially tie him closer to a series of unsolved murders.
     
     Tony Brueski remarked on the gravity of these revelations, stating, "Certainly it puts him in the circle. Of this swinger sex community. Does that then tie him closer to these potential his name to these murders? I sure think so."
     
     It's not just the nature of the alleged activities that makes these claims significant. Heuermann's unique physical appearance, far from being a typical "five-foot-seven Joe", made him notably memorable to some witnesses. Some even claim to have seen him with his eventual victims while they were still alive, deeply embedding him in this hedonistic scene.
     
     However, memories, especially those spanning decades, can be treacherous. While recalling events from the mid-90s, psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott highlighted, "Memory can be fallible, but... he's a very distinctive appearing person and as much as memory is reconstructed and is fallible, there are things that are pretty accurate." The idea is that even if memories can be malleable, distinct events or people – like Heuermann – might leave a more indelible mark.
     
     Intriguingly, one witness recounted an interaction with Asa Ellerup, potentially placing Heuermann in a bisexual light and tying him to a male victim found on the beach. This witness recalled a conversation wherein Asa expressed both gratitude towards and fear of Heuermann. She refrained from expressing any desire to be part of his darker ventures, yet seemed to be aware of them. This revelation transforms Ellerup into a pivotal character in this unfolding narrative.
     
     Brueski further elaborated, "She's been an interesting character... looking at her as a victim of this, and in certainly many ways, she possibly is." There are suspicions of Asa's possible victimhood, hinting at a toxic relationship marked by fear and control, potentially abused and manipulated by Heuermann. The fact that she might have remained silent about Heuermann's activities for years adds further layers to her role in this ongoing investigation.
     
     However, the manner in which this information has come to light is itself unorthodox. Instead of official investigators leading the charge, these recent revelations have been primarily pushed by defense attorneys. One possible reason? Victims or witnesses might feel more at ease approaching a defense attorney rather than the police, especially if they fear repercussions for their own past activities.
     
     "It's another unusual aspect. The defense attorney is a very colorful character... he's comfortable in the spotlight and not averse at all to going out and talking about these things," stated Scott.
    With every new piece of information, the timeline for any potential trial seems to stretch further, and the questions only multiply. Why hasn't Asa Ellerup been extensively interviewed by the police? How much more remains hidden, waiting to come to the surface?
    As with many investigations of this magnitude, clarity often leads to further obscurity. But one thing is certain: as the Rex Heuermann saga unfolds, the world watches with bated breath. The real question then becomes: when the curtain finally falls, are we prepared to confront the truth that lies beneath?
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    10 min

About Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

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Welcome to Mind Behind The Crime, the authoritative podcast that grants you exclusive access to the profound insights of respected psychologists, psychotherapists, and mental health experts as they…

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