Judge's Decision Allows Use of Crucial DNA Evidence in Gilgo Beach Killer Trial

In a groundbreaking decision, Judge Timothy Mazzei has admitted DNA evidence linking Rex Heuermann to six of the seven women he is accused of killing. This marks the first time whole genome sequencing DNA technology has been used as evidence in a New York court.

Heuermann, who pleaded not guilty to the murders of the women whose remains were found discarded on Long Island between 1993 and 2011, was arrested in July 2023. The victims include Maureen Brainard Barnes, Megan Waterman, Amber Costello, Sandra Costilla, Jessica Taylor, and Valerie Mack.

The defense had challenged the DNA evidence, urging the judge to preclude evidence pertaining to DNA results obtained from hairs recovered from the victims. However, the judge ruled against the defense's motion, stating that the use of whole genome sequencing to extract DNA from the hairs, create a profile, and then compare that profile to Heuermann "is generally accepted in the relevant scientific community."

Prosecutors successfully argued that the technology is derived from accepted scientific methods, and is "generally accepted in the scientific community" and is based on technology "relied upon in a wide variety of scientific and forensic settings." The technology, which had never been used in a New York court before, is a powerful tool that allows for a detailed analysis of DNA, even from small samples such as hairs.

The defense has not been successful in its attempts to dismiss the DNA evidence. Judge Mazzei will rule on the defense's motion to break up the case into multiple trials at the next hearing scheduled for Sept. 23.

Suffolk District Attorney Ray Tierney stated that the decision will allow more cold cases to move forward for prosecution. The use of advanced DNA technology in criminal investigations is a significant step forward in solving crimes and bringing justice to victims and their families.

The trial against Rex Heuermann is ongoing, and the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the use of DNA technology in criminal investigations in New York and beyond.