In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers", host Tony Brueski discussed the troubling link between sex workers, their marginalization, and the unresolved crimes connected to them, with retired FBI Special Agent, Robin Dreeke. The conversation shed light on the role of police and society in the perpetuation of this cycle, specifically referencing the case of James Burke, former Suffolk County Police Chief, during the time Rex Heuermann, the alleged Gilgo Beach killer, was active.

 

 Dreeke highlighted the systemic victimization of the sex worker community, explaining that most of them did not choose this line of work, but were forced into it by predators at a young age. “This group tends to be the most trafficked as teenagers, basically sold into slavery,” Dreeke said. This initial victimization often spirals into a life of continued exploitation and marginalization by society and law enforcement, making it incredibly difficult for individuals in this community to come forward or seek help, thereby enabling serial rapists and killers to continue victimizing them.

 

 In the case of Burke, not only did his involvement in the sex industry likely deter sex workers from coming forward, but he also utilized and victimized them himself. Brueski and Dreeke agreed that this is part of a larger societal issue, where sex workers are viewed as lesser individuals, despite being forced into their circumstances. Brueski noted, “It’s a societal issue where people aren’t accepting that… these folks did not choose to do this.”

 

 The conversation also touched on the importance of community policing, with Dreeke emphasizing that communities with strong police-community relationships tend to have lower crime rates and faster resolution times. Unfortunately, the individuals who could be most proactive in solving crimes are often the ones most victimized by them.

 

 Despite the dark nature of the topic, Dreeke noted a disconcerting trend: episodes of his podcast covering serial rapists receive significantly fewer downloads than those covering serial killers. This disparity highlights a societal tendency to focus on sensationalized crimes while overlooking issues that could lead to proactive solutions.

 

 The podcast episode served as a stark reminder of the need for society to address its underlying issues contributing to the victimization of already marginalized communities. It stressed the importance of acknowledging the systemic forces that lead individuals into sex work, treating them with empathy and respect, and recognizing the critical role they can play in solving and preventing crimes. Ultimately, every life is important, and it is the responsibility of both law enforcement and society as a whole to ensure that no one is left behind or forgotten.

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