Defense Pushback
Heuermann’s attorney, Michael J. Brown, dismissed the evidence as “magic,” vowing to appeal if his client is convicted. “Those magic numbers are going to be put before a jury,” he said.
Heuermann, a Massapequa architect, has pleaded not guilty to murdering seven women between 1993 and 2011. Victims were discovered in horrific conditions—some dismembered—along the Gilgo Beach corridor.
The case gained traction after an eyewitness linked Heuermann’s vehicle to one of the victims, Amber Costello, sparking the investigation that led to his 2023 arrest.
Wider Forensic Implications
Prosecutors argue this decision doesn’t just impact the DNA Gilgo Beach Case, but may revolutionize cold case investigations nationwide. Tierney confirmed Astrea had worked with the FBI and stressed this DNA is “just one piece” of the state’s case.
“This marks a significant step in forensic DNA analysis,” Tierney said. “It opens doors for countless other cold cases.”
What’s Next
Heuermann’s defense filed a fresh motion Wednesday, claiming Astrea isn’t accredited under New York law, rendering its evidence “patently unreliable.” Judge Mazzei said he will rule on that argument by Sept. 23.
No trial date has been set, and both sides confirmed no plea deal is on the table.
The state’s case is being handled by Andrew Lee, Nicholas J. Santomartino, Michelle Haddad, Lawrence Opisso, Meaghan Powers, and Raymond Tierney. Heuermann’s defense team includes Michael J. Brown, Danielle Coysh, and Sabato Caponi.
