RIVERHEAD, N.Y. — Rex Heuermann, convicted of murdering eight women between 1993 and 2010, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Judge Timothy Mazzei imposed three consecutive life sentences, followed by four additional sentences of 25 years to life, the maximum allowed under New York law.
Heuermann, 62, acknowledged his responsibility in court, stating, "I’m responsible. The words I would say have no meaning." In response to a victim's family member urging him to express remorse, Judge Mazzei remarked, "I know that you’re sorry you got caught. I assume you’re sorry for what you did to your wife and children…Are you at least a little bit sorry for what you did to these eight women?" Heuermann nodded affirmatively and expressed regret.
Judge Mazzei described Heuermann as "a disgusting and despicable small man, if you’re a man at all," before concluding the sentencing.
Heuermann pleaded guilty to seven murders on April 8 and confessed to an additional uncharged murder. The victims were discovered in various locations across Long Island, including the Hamptons and Gilgo Beach, with all having been strangled and some dismembered.
The identified victims include Sandra Costilla, Karen Vergata, Valerie Mack, Jessica Taylor, and the Gilgo Four: Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Lynn Costello. Heuermann worked approximately 45 miles east of New York City, near his former residence in Massapequa Park.
Concerns about a serial killer emerged in late 2010 following the disappearance of Shannan Gilbert, who made frantic 911 calls before vanishing. During the search for her, police uncovered 10 other victims, including Gilbert, whose death was later ruled accidental. Evidence related to the other victims ultimately led authorities to Heuermann.
Heuermann was initially charged with three murders but faced seven charges by the time of his guilty plea. Prosecutors allege he transferred DNA from his ex-wife and daughter to some victims and maintained a computer file detailing his criminal plans. His family has not been implicated in the crimes, as they were away during the murders. Three additional victims found in the area have not been linked to Heuermann.