Ep 6. Secrets in Silver Lakes

In the sixth episode of Dateline season 26, titled "Secrets in Silver Lakes," the show investigates a chilling murder that took place in a peaceful, affluent neighborhood.

The episode begins with the story of a young woman named Sherri Rasmussen, who was found brutally murdered in her home in Silver Lakes, California in 1986. Despite evidence leading to a suspect, the investigation was eventually dropped and the case remained unsolved.

Almost two decades later, the case is reopened with a new detective assigned to the case. As the show delves deeper into the investigation, it becomes apparent that the original detectives may have overlooked crucial evidence that could have led to the killer.

Dateline interviews family members and friends of the victim, including her husband John Ruetten, who was initially considered a suspect in the case but later cleared of any involvement. Ruetten recounts the early days of his relationship with Sherri and their short-lived marriage. He also speaks about the impact the murder had on him and the need for justice for Sherri.

Detectives Jonathan Barnard and Tim Marcia, who were tasked with reopening the case, share their frustrations and challenges in investigating a decades-old crime. They reveal how advancements in forensic technology allowed them to uncover new evidence, including DNA samples.

The episode also introduces us to the primary suspect in the case - Stephanie Lazarus, a former LAPD detective who had a history with the victim's husband, John Ruetten. Dateline uncovers the complicated relationship between Stephanie and John and reveals a possible motive for the murder.

As the investigation moves forward, the detectives also uncover shocking information about Stephanie's past and her behavior as a police officer. They speak with former colleagues who share their experiences working with Stephanie and detail the lengths she would go to protect herself and her reputation.

The episode culminates in Stephanie Lazarus's arrest and trial for the murder of Sherri Rasmussen. Dateline covers the trial proceedings and interviews members of the prosecution and defense teams. The show also speaks with family members and friends of Sherri Rasmussen, who express their relief in finally having closure in the case and justice for their loved one.

Overall, "Secrets in Silver Lakes" is a gripping episode that takes us on a journey through a decades-old murder case and the tireless efforts of detectives to solve it. It is a reminder that justice can be hard-fought, but ultimately worth it for those left behind.