Former LAPD detective sentenced to 27 years

Stephanie Lazarus, a former Los Angeles police detective, was sentenced to 27 years to life in state prison for gunning down her ex-boyfriend’s wife inside a Van Nuys home more than 26 years ago. (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

May 11, 2012 10:22 AM PT

Former Los Angeles Police Det. Stephanie Lazarus was sentenced Friday to 27 years to life in prison with the possibility of parole for killing her ex-boyfriend’s wife nearly three decades ago in a fit of rage and jealousy. Full story

John Ruetten, the husband of murder victim Sherri Rasmussen and one-time love interest of Stephanie Lazarus, gives his victim impact statement. (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Loretta Rasmussen, the mother of murder victim Sherri Rasmussen, gives her victim impact statement during the sentencing of former LAPD detective Stephanie Lazarus in Los Angeles County Superior Court. (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Teresa Lane, sister of murder victim Sherri Rasmussen, gives her victim impact statement during the sentencing of former LAPD detective Stephanie Lazarus. (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Stephanie Lazarus, a former Los Angeles police detective, listens to victim impact statements during her sentencing in Superior Court. (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Superior Court Judge Robert J. Perry listens to victim impact statements during the sentencing of former LAPD Det. Stephanie Lazarus. (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)