RIVERHEAD, NY – Accused of Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann is due back in Long Island court Tuesday morning, and prosecutors are promising a major development in the case.
The hearing is expected to begin after 9:30 a.m. A news conference is expected at the Suffolk County Prosecutor’s Office shortly thereafter. We will bring you this press conference live on CBS News New York.
The judge previously indicated he wanted to set a trial date at today’s hearing.
Heuermann’s last court appearance was in October.
Heuermann accused of killing 6 women so far
Heuermann, 61, has pleaded not guilty to murder charges in connection with deaths of six women between 1993 and 2011. The remains of 11 people were discovered around Gilgo Beach during that time, and investigators believe Heuermann may be linked to other murders. The Suffolk County prosecutor said there could be future charges.
Four of the victims had their bodies disposed of near Gilgo Beach. Two others were murdered as early as 2003 and 1993. Each of them was involved in sex work.
Prosecutors say Heuermann is linked to the killings through DNA, burner phone data, a description of his truck, Internet searches and what they call a plan to get away with murder.
Lawyers argue over DNA and volume of evidence
A key point of contention in the new DNA evidence is called SNP, which prosecutors say connects the victims’ hair to Heuermann. The defense called genetic testing methods used by an outside lab unproven and “magic.”
Another obstacle for prosecutors is the large volume of evidence. The DA says it is struggling to meet the costs of processing the 120 terabytes of data and 400 electronic devices seized.
Heuermann’s lawyer says his client is looking forward to his day in court and will be pursue a change of locationclaiming the Suffolk jury was “poisoned”.
Heuermann remains isolated in prison.
Natalie Duddridge
