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Gilgo Beach Suspect Skips Court Over Health Issues as Judge Sets April 8 Ruling on DNA Motions

The judge scheduled a decision on whether key DNA from discarded items will be allowed at trial.

Overview

  • Rex Heuermann did not attend the brief Suffolk County hearing after his lawyer cited undisclosed health issues and said he has used crutches for about a month.
  • Judge Timothy Mazzei adjourned proceedings to April 8, when he is expected to rule on the defense suppression motions.
  • The defense seeks to exclude DNA evidence obtained from saliva on a discarded pizza crust, arguing privacy violations and lack of a warrant.
  • Prosecutors maintain that New York law permits testing of abandonment samples and say investigators obtained the evidence lawfully.
  • Heuermann has pleaded not guilty to seven murder charges, remains held without bail, and is scheduled for trial shortly after Labor Day.