The parents of Sherri Rasmussen are suing the Los Angeles Police Department for California wrongful death. Rasmussen was beaten and shot to death in the Van Nuys residence where she was living with her husband, John Ruetten.
At the time, Ruetten had pointed to his ex-girlfriend, LAPD officer Stephanie Lazarus, as someone who had threatened his wife repeatedly. Lazarus, however, was never a suspect during the initial investigation and no one even questioned her. She was eventually promoted to detective.
It wasn't until the murder case was reopened and DNA evidence was used that Lazarus was linked to Rasmussen's death. Woman's saliva was found on bite marks on the victim's body.
Lazarus and Ruetten had dated for several years before he married Rasmussen. The police officer was reportedly very upset by the breakup and the news that he was marrying someone else. Ruetten and Rasmussen were newlyweds at the time of the brutal killing.
Lazarus was arrested last year and has pleaded not guilty to capital murder. She is awaiting her criminal trial and remains behind bars. Her bail was set at $10 million.
LAPD officials are saying that they don't believe that any cover up to protect Lazarus took place. Nevertheless, in their Los Angeles wrongful death complaint, Nels and Loretta Rasmussen are contending that the LAPD purposely ignored clues that pointed toward the female cop.
Los Angeles Wrongful Death
There may be parties that didn't directly cause your loved one's death who should be sued because their negligence, carelessness, or recklessness played a role in causing your tragic loss. While Los Angeles wrongful death recovery can't bring your loved one back, it can provide some comfort to know that a responsible party is being held liable and offer you some financial relief for your losses.
Family of woman allegedly killed by LAPD officer file lawsuit against the suspect and department, Los Angeles Times, July 27, 2010
Brother of LAPD Detective Accused of Murder Wants $10 Million Bail Lowered, KTLA, July 16, 2010
LAPD Detective Charged in 1986 Love-Triangle Murder, ABC, June 10, 2009
Related Web Resources:
Los Angeles Police Department
Wrongful Death, Justia
