Suspected Long Island Serial Killer Expected to Cop a Plea

Rex Heuermann, a Long Island architect accused in the notorious Gilgo Beach killings, is expected to plead guilty in court on Wednesday, according to three sources who spoke with the Associated Press. Authorities plan to hold a press conference Wednesday afternoon to discuss the development. Heuermann, 62, is expected to be sentenced at a later date, and a guilty plea would lead to a life sentence in prison.

Heuermann has been charged in connection with a series of murders spanning nearly two decades. Prosecutors say the killings date back to the early 1990s and involve women whose remains were discovered along Ocean Parkway near Gilgo Beach on Long Island between 1993 and 2010.

The Massapequa Park resident was initially charged in the 2010 killings of Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Costello. As the investigation continued, prosecutors brought additional charges against him in the deaths of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Jessica Taylor, Sandra Costilla, and Valerie Mack of Philadelphia. In total, he has been indicted in seven murders.

Investigators say the victims’ remains were found in multiple locations along the parkway corridor. Prosecutors allege the crimes involved torture, mutilation, and dismemberment.

Reports from several news outlets say discussions have been taking place between prosecutors and Heuermann’s defense attorney about a possible plea agreement ahead of his April 8 court appearance. If he formally enters a guilty plea, he could face a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Heuermann’s legal team recently attempted to block the use of DNA evidence that investigators consider crucial to the case, but the court rejected that request. Sources say both the families of the victims and members of Heuermann’s own family have been notified about the expected plea.

Original Source