Robert Reldan's Bergen County Burial: Strangler Dies in Prison
Convicted Killer's Final Resting Place Revealed
Robert Reldan, infamously known as the Bergen County Strangler, died in prison on September 23, 2024, at the age of 84. His death marks the end of a notorious criminal career that terrorized New Jersey communities in the 1970s.
Reldan was convicted of raping and murdering two women, Susan Reeve and Susan Heynes, in 1975. These brutal crimes shocked residents of Bergen County and exposed the dark underbelly of their seemingly peaceful suburbs. Reldan's outwardly charming demeanor had masked a violent criminal history that included multiple rapes and attempted burglaries.
The Bergen County Strangler's reign of terror came to an end on October 31, 1975, when police arrested Reldan in Closter, New Jersey. He was subsequently sentenced to life in prison, where he remained until his death nearly five decades later. Reldan's passing closes a dark chapter in New Jersey's criminal history, leaving behind a legacy of fear and tragedy.
Profile of a Killer
Robert Reldan, known as the Bergen County Strangler, terrorized New Jersey communities in the 1970s. Born in 1940, he grew up in New York before moving to Fort Lee, New Jersey at age 11.
Reldan's outward charm masked a violent criminal nature. He possessed a charismatic personality that allowed him to gain trust easily, earning him the nickname "The Charmer."
His criminal career spanned decades and included multiple violent offenses. In 1967, Reldan was convicted of rape in Teaneck and served three years in prison before being paroled.
The most notorious chapter of Reldan's crimes occurred in 1975. He was convicted of raping and murdering two women - Susan Reeve and Susan Heynes - shocking Bergen County residents.
Key aspects of Reldan's profile:
Charming demeanor
History of sexual violence
Escalation to murder
Targeted women in suburban areas
Used strangulation as method of killing
On October 31, 1975, police arrested 35-year-old Reldan in Closter, New Jersey on attempted burglary charges. This arrest ultimately led to his conviction for the murders.
Reldan's case highlights the dangers of judging character based solely on outward appearances. His ability to blend into society while harboring violent tendencies made him a particularly dangerous predator.
Victims and Their Tragic End
Robert Reldan's crimes left a trail of devastation, with multiple young women falling victim to his violent acts. His most notorious murders involved two Bergen County residents whose lives were cut tragically short.
Susan Reeve and Susan Heynes
Susan Reeve, 22, and Susan Heynes, 28, became Reldan's most well-known victims in 1975. Both women were strangled to death within days of each other in Bergen County.
Reeve, a teacher from Demarest, disappeared on October 14, 1975. Her body was found two days later in Tallman State Park.
Heynes, a bank teller from Haworth, vanished on October 27, 1975. Her remains were discovered in a wooded area of Rockleigh on November 2.
The murders shocked local communities and sparked widespread fear. Both women were young professionals with promising futures, making their deaths particularly heartbreaking.
Other Victims
While Reeve and Heynes were Reldan's confirmed murder victims, evidence suggests he may have been responsible for additional crimes.
Investigators linked Reldan to several unsolved disappearances and assaults in the area. However, conclusive proof remained elusive in many cases.
Reldan had a history of violence against women, including a 1967 rape conviction. This pattern of behavior raised suspicions about his potential involvement in other attacks.
The true extent of Reldan's crimes may never be fully known. His actions left many families grappling with unanswered questions and enduring grief.
The Crimes and Investigation
Robert Reldan committed a series of violent crimes in Bergen County, New Jersey during the 1970s. His actions sparked fear throughout the region as authorities worked to build a case against him.
Capture and Arrest
In 1975, police arrested Robert Reldan for the murders of Susan Reeve and Susan Heynes. The two women had been strangled to death, their bodies found in wooded areas of Bergen County.
Reldan initially evaded capture due to his seemingly charming demeanor. However, a string of burglaries and assaults linked to him led to increased police scrutiny.
Law enforcement finally apprehended Reldan after connecting him to several rape cases. His arrest brought relief to the terrorized communities of Bergen County.
Evidence and Trial
Prosecutors built a strong case against Reldan using physical evidence and witness testimony. DNA evidence was not yet available, but investigators found fibers and other forensic clues linking him to the crime scenes.
The trial revealed Reldan's pattern of targeting young women. Multiple survivors testified about their encounters with him, providing crucial evidence of his modus operandi.
In a surprising twist, authorities uncovered a plot by Reldan to hire a hitman while in prison. This conspiracy charge added to his mounting legal troubles.
The jury found Reldan guilty of the murders. He received a sentence of 20 to 50 years, later extended to life in prison for his crimes.
Legal Battles and Convictions
Robert Reldan faced multiple court proceedings for his crimes in Bergen County. His legal journey involved trials, appeals, and ultimately a life sentence.
Court Trials
Reldan's trial for the murders of Susan Reeve and Susan Heynes began in 1979. Prosecutors presented evidence linking him to both crimes, including fibers found on the victims' bodies. The jury heard testimony about Reldan's criminal history, which included prior convictions for rape and assault. After deliberations, the jury found Reldan guilty on two counts of first-degree murder.
Appeals and Sentencing
Following his conviction, Reldan was sentenced to life in prison. He filed several appeals, challenging various aspects of his trial and sentencing. The Superior Court rejected these appeals, upholding the original verdict and sentence. Reldan's criminal history played a significant role in his sentencing, with the judge citing his pattern of violent offenses. He remained incarcerated at New Jersey State Prison until his death, never gaining parole due to the severity of his crimes.
Life Behind Bars
Robert Reldan spent decades incarcerated at New Jersey State Prison in Trenton. He was sentenced to life in prison for his brutal crimes in Bergen County during the 1970s.
Behind bars, Reldan's charismatic persona persisted. He managed to build connections and manipulate the system to his advantage. In a surprising turn of events, Reldan became a millionaire while imprisoned.
The source of his newfound wealth came from an inheritance left by his aunt. This financial windfall allowed him certain privileges within the confines of the prison system.
Despite his wealth, Reldan remained under close supervision. His attempts at parole were consistently denied due to the severity of his crimes and the ongoing threat he posed to society.
The prison administration faced challenges in managing Reldan's unique situation. They had to balance security concerns with his legal rights to his inheritance.
Rehabilitation efforts for Reldan proved largely ineffective. His narcissistic tendencies and lack of remorse made meaningful change unlikely.
As years passed, Reldan's health declined. He spent his final days in the prison's medical facility, still under the watchful eye of correctional officers.
Robert Reldan's Death
Robert Reldan, the notorious Bergen County Strangler, died in prison on December 12, 2014. He was 74 years old at the time of his passing.
Reldan spent his final years incarcerated at New Jersey State Prison in Trenton. He had been serving two consecutive life sentences for the murders of Susan Reeve and Susan Heynes in 1975.
The cause of Reldan's death was not publicly disclosed. However, it is known that he died while still in custody, never having been released from prison since his conviction.
Reldan's death marked the end of a dark chapter in Bergen County's history. His crimes had terrorized the community for years, leaving a lasting impact on residents.
Throughout his time in prison, Reldan maintained his innocence. He never expressed remorse for the murders he was convicted of committing.
The news of Reldan's death brought a sense of closure to the families of his victims and the wider community. It ensured that he would never again pose a threat to society.
Reldan's Impact on Society
Robert Reldan's crimes left an indelible mark on Bergen County and beyond. His actions reshaped community dynamics, influenced legal proceedings, and captured public attention for decades.
Effects on the Community
Reldan's crimes instilled fear in Bergen County residents. Neighborhoods implemented new safety measures. People became more vigilant, locking doors and windows. Community watch groups formed. Parents restricted children's outdoor activities. Local businesses improved security systems. Trust among neighbors eroded temporarily.
Women's self-defense classes gained popularity. Police departments increased patrols. Public spaces saw enhanced lighting installations. Schools introduced stranger danger programs. The sense of safety in quiet suburban areas was shaken. Community bonds ultimately strengthened as residents united against crime.
Changes to the Legal System
Reldan's case exposed flaws in the criminal justice system. Parole policies underwent scrutiny. Lawmakers tightened regulations for releasing violent offenders. DNA evidence gained prominence in investigations. Police departments improved training for handling serial crime cases.
Victim support services expanded. Witness protection programs received more funding. Courts implemented stricter sentencing guidelines for repeat offenders. The importance of preserving crime scene evidence was emphasized. Inter-agency cooperation increased to track criminals across jurisdictions.
Media and Public Interest
True crime documentaries featuring Reldan's case captivated audiences. Books and articles analyzed his psychology and methods. Public fascination with serial killers grew. Media coverage raised awareness about personal safety.
Journalists debated ethical reporting of violent crimes. Victim advocacy groups gained visibility. Television shows dramatized aspects of the case. Online forums discussed unsolved mysteries related to Reldan. His notoriety persisted long after his conviction, serving as a cautionary tale.
The Wealthy Aunt and Inheritance Conspiracy
Robert Reldan's criminal activities extended beyond murder to include a sinister plot against his own family. In 1978, while serving time for burglary, Reldan hatched a scheme to hasten his inheritance.
The target was his wealthy aunt, Lillian Booth. Reldan attempted to arrange her murder, along with that of her boyfriend, to gain access to his anticipated inheritance sooner.
A Bergen County detective posed as a hitman, meeting Reldan twice at Trenton State Prison. These conversations were recorded, providing damning evidence against him.
On April 26, 1978, Reldan was found guilty of conspiracy to commit murder. This conviction came while he was still awaiting trial for the murders of two Bergen County women in 1975.
The court sentenced Reldan to 20 to 25 years in prison for this inheritance plot. This sentence was in addition to the time he was already serving and separate from any potential sentences for his other alleged crimes.
This failed conspiracy demonstrated Reldan's ruthlessness and willingness to target even his own family members for financial gain. It added another layer to his already extensive criminal record.
The Psychology of Serial Offenders
Serial offenders, like Robert Reldan, often exhibit distinct psychological traits. These individuals frequently have a history of childhood trauma or abuse, which can contribute to their later criminal behavior.
Many serial killers and rapists display antisocial personality disorder, characterized by a lack of empathy and disregard for social norms. This condition often manifests in their teenage years through a pattern of rule-breaking and aggression.
Narcissism is another common trait among serial offenders. They may view themselves as superior to others and feel entitled to act on their violent impulses.
Some serial assaulters experience sexual sadism, deriving pleasure from causing pain or humiliation to their victims. This paraphilia can drive their criminal actions.
Childhood experiences play a crucial role in shaping future offenders. Neglect, abuse, or exposure to violence can lead to emotional detachment and a distorted view of relationships.
Serial offenders typically have an extensive criminal record, starting with minor offenses and escalating to more serious crimes over time. This pattern reflects their inability to control their impulses and learn from consequences.
Understanding these psychological factors is essential for law enforcement and mental health professionals in preventing and addressing serial offenses.
Comprehensive Analysis by Experts
Criminal profilers and true crime authors have extensively studied Robert Reldan's case, providing valuable insights into his psychology and crimes. Their analysis sheds light on Reldan's modus operandi and the impact of his actions on Bergen County.
Criminal Profiling Insights
FBI profilers examined Reldan's behavior patterns and crime scenes. They noted his preference for targeting young women and his use of charm to gain trust. Profilers highlighted Reldan's methodical approach, suggesting he carefully planned his attacks. His ability to appear normal in everyday life while harboring violent tendencies was deemed a classic trait of psychopathy. Experts pointed out that Reldan's crimes escalated over time, indicating an increasing need for control and violence.
True Crime Authors' Perspectives
Richard Muti and Charles Buckley co-authored "The Charmer," a detailed account of Reldan's crimes. Their research included interviews with law enforcement and court documents analysis. The authors emphasized Reldan's manipulative nature and the lasting trauma inflicted on victims' families. They explored Bergen County's rich history and how Reldan's crimes affected the community. Muti and Buckley conducted a book tour, sharing insights on Reldan's psychology and the investigation process.
