Lawmakers in New York are advocating for changes to a longstanding state law following revelations that the estranged wife of alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann, Asa Ellerup, is reportedly earning $1 million from a Peacock TV docuseries.
The situation has sparked outrage and raised concerns about family members of convicted criminals profiting from their crimes.
Proposed Legislation
The existing “Son of Sam” law, named after convicted serial killer David Berkowitz, has been in place since 1977 but was deemed unconstitutional by the US Supreme Court in 1991.
It was later amended in 2001 to notify victims’ families about any proceeds exceeding $10,000, allowing them to sue offenders. However, the law does not currently extend to spouses, ex-spouses, and other family members.
New York State Senator Kevin Thomas and Assembly member Fred Thiele are proposing an expansion of the law to prevent family members of convicted criminals from financially benefiting from their crimes.
The move comes as Asa Ellerup, who filed for divorce six days after Heuermann’s July arrest, reportedly profits from a documentary series on the alleged crimes.
Thomas emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating, “My legislation aims to take it a step further to ensure that media deals surrounding a crime are subject to the same transparency and accountability as the perpetrator themselves. No one should be profiting off a crime.”
Ellerup’s attorney dismissed the proposed legislation as a publicity stunt, stating concerns about potential attempts to control media coverage.
The bill is expected to be debated in early 2024, with potential immediate enactment if passed.
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Unraveling the Mysteries Along Gilgo Beach
The case involving Rex Heuermann centers on his alleged connection to the “Gilgo Four” murders, where the victims, all sex workers, were found along Gilgo Beach in Long Island, New York, between 2010 and 2011.
Heuermann faces charges related to the murders of Amber Lynn Costello, Melissa Barthelemy, and Megan Waterman.
The proposed legal amendment has garnered support from attorney John Ray, who represents victims’ families, describing Ellerup as a “ghoul” profiting from the tragedy.
The debate surrounding this legislation reflects broader concerns about ethics and accountability when family members potentially exploit the crimes of their convicted relatives.
As the legal landscape evolves, the proposed legislation seeks to address a legal gap that allows family members to profit from heinous crimes, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to justice for victims and their families.
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