The cognitive bias in strong relationships can lead to denial among family members of serious offenders. Asa Ellerup, wife of suspected Long Island Serial Killer Rex Heuermann, claims he is innocent despite incriminating evidence. She cites reasons such as his status as a family man and lack of behavioral signs. This phenomenon is common, as many discover loved ones living double lives. The biases involved can include affinity bias or the halo effect, distorting perceptions of reality and reducing objectivity towards the actions of those close to them.
Asa Ellerup, Rex Heuermann's wife of twenty-seven years, maintains he is incapable of the murders despite claims of torture porn and graphic checklists for murder.
People express surprise about Asa's stance given the overwhelming evidence, but she argues he is a family man and never exhibited concerning behavior.
This cognitive bias leads those close to offenders to minimize or overlook incriminating evidence, creating situations of denial about a loved one's wrongdoing.
The phenomenon of affinity bias or the halo effect distorts objectivity in relationships, preventing individuals from acknowledging the flaws or criminal actions of those they know.
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