Ex-LAPD detective's parole reversal decision

Lazarus, who concealed her involvement in the murder for over two decades, was initially granted parole eligibility under a California law that considered her age at the time of the crime. However, following a hearing where the victim’s family expressed their concerns about her lack of remorse and the nature of the crime, the board rescinded the earlier decision. The family’s attorney emphasized that Lazarus had evaded justice for 23 years and that allowing her to be released would be unfair, as she continues to receive her LAPD pension despite her conviction. The board has scheduled another hearing for Lazarus within the next 120 days to reassess her suitability for parole.

Background of the Case

Sherri Rasmussen, a 29-year-old nurse, was murdered in her home, and the crime was initially thought to be a burglary gone wrong. However, it wasn’t until 2009 that advances in DNA technology led to the reopening of the cold case, ultimately implicating Lazarus as the killer. She was arrested in 2009 and convicted in 2012, receiving a sentence of 27 years to life.

Parole Hearing and Reversal

In a hearing that lasted 90 minutes, the California Parole Board evaluated Lazarus’s case, taking into account her age at the time of the murder and her behavior in prison. Despite a prior recommendation for her release, the reversal was influenced by the concerns raised by Rasmussen’s family and the acknowledgment of Lazarus’s lack of accountability for her actions.

Future of the Case

Lazarus will have another opportunity for parole in the near future, as the board plans to reconvene for further hearings. The case continues to attract media attention, with programs like ABC’s “20/20” featuring exclusive interviews and insights into the investigation and the impact of the crime on Rasmussen’s family.