October 5, 2024 — Stephanie Lazarus, a former Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) detective convicted of the 1986 murder of Sherri Rasmussen, has once again been denied parole. Lazarus, who was found guilty in 2012 of fatally shooting her ex-boyfriend’s wife and concealing the crime for over two decades, remains behind bars as her latest attempt for release was rescinded.
Murder of Sherri Rasmussen and Decades of Deceit
Lazarus, a once-respected LAPD detective, was convicted of murdering Sherri Rasmussen, a 29-year-old nurse and the wife of her ex-boyfriend, John Ruetten. The case went cold for years before Lazarus was identified as a suspect in 2009 through DNA evidence linking her to the crime. Rasmussen was found beaten and shot to death in the couple’s Van Nuys condo in 1986, a crime initially believed to be the result of a botched robbery.
The investigation into Rasmussen’s murder stalled for more than two decades, allowing Lazarus to maintain her career with the LAPD. It wasn’t until advancements in DNA testing and persistent efforts by Rasmussen’s family that the case was reopened, leading to Lazarus’ arrest and conviction.
Parole Denied Once Again
Lazarus, now 64, has consistently appealed her conviction and sought parole, citing her years of service and maintaining her innocence. However, during her latest parole hearing, the board denied her request, stating that she remains a threat to society. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has scheduled a suitability hearing within 120 days to further assess her case, but the prospects of her release appear slim.
This is not the first time Lazarus has been denied parole. Her previous appeals have been met with strong opposition from the Rasmussen family, who continue to advocate for justice and maintain that Lazarus should serve her full sentence for the brutal crime.
A Tragic Legacy for Sherri Rasmussen’s Family
The murder of Sherri Rasmussen has left a lasting impact on her family, who spent decades seeking answers. Rasmussen’s father, Nels Rasmussen, has been a vocal advocate for justice, relentlessly pushing for the case to be reopened in the years following his daughter’s death. The family expressed relief that Lazarus remains incarcerated but continues to deal with the emotional toll of the long-delayed justice.
Courtesy Steve Lazarus
Lazarus’ conviction and the decades of deception have also brought significant scrutiny to the LAPD, raising questions about how one of their own was able to avoid suspicion for so long. Many believe that Lazarus’ position within the department played a role in delaying the investigation, further adding to the tragedy of the case.
As the parole board continues to review Lazarus’ case, it remains clear that the legacy of Sherri Rasmussen will not be forgotten, and justice will be pursued as long as necessary.