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Rex Heuermann, aged 59, is charged with the murders of three out of the four women whose bodies were discovered on Long Island's Gilgo Beach back in December 2010. The case remained unsolved for thirteen years, and the suspect was only identified due to advances in DNA evidence.

Heuermann has been charged with six counts of murder in the deaths of Melissa Barthelemy, 24; Megan Waterman, 22; and Amber Lynn Costello, 27; and is the prime suspect in the death of 25-year-old Maureen Brainard-Barnes.

He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment. He remains jailed at the Suffolk County Correctional Facility without bail.

In 2010, a few strands of hair were found at the scene where the remains of the three young women were concealed in the dense underbrush near Gilgo Beach. 

Investigators also found other key connections that tie him to the victims. 

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DNA Evidence is vital

The hair was collected and later became crucial evidence. Legal experts suggest that the DNA, combined with cell phone records place Heuermann near the victims at the time of their deaths. And the eerie similarities in the way the bodies were disposed of, create a compelling case for the prosecution.

Former Suffolk County prosecutor Steven Wilutis described the DNA evidence against Heuermann as a "prosecutor's dream."  And highlights the improbable scenario that the same DNA could be found on the bodies of three different victims.

Legal experts caution that no case is without its challenges. Defense attorneys might attempt to exploit gaps in witness memories or potential degradation of the DNA evidence over the thirteen-year gap between the discovery of the bodies and the arrest of Heuermann.

Memories of key witnesses may have faded, and some may no longer be available to testify, underscoring the critical role that physical evidence plays. Advancements in DNA testing and cellular phone data analysis point to the accused.  But the defense can argue about the reliability of degraded DNA.

The prosecution, led by Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney, is strategically emphasizing the significance of the DNA evidence. They have successfully argued for a cheek swab comparison, further strengthening their case. 

Beyond DNA, investigators have been diligently collecting evidence from various locations associated with Heuermann, including his Massapequa Park home, nearby storage units, a previously owned Chevy Avalanche, and his Midtown Manhattan office. 

The amount of evidence seized has been described as "voluminous." 

As the legal proceedings continue, Rex Heuermann's fate hangs in the balance. The next court appearance is set for August 15.

The combination of DNA evidence and cell phone data should make for a strong case. And although the challenges posed by the passage of time will define the trajectory of this long-awaited trial, shedding light on a dark chapter in Long Island's history.