Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Steve, You said it All!!

Dear Friends:

It was with great shock and sadness that I received the news of Russ’s death this morning. As most of you know Russell Lee was a very large part of my life (both professional and personal) during my 14 years at Hollywood Homicide. As my partner and then my supervisor he, more than any other individual, influenced my career. And what a privilege influenced that was for me! Russ possessed a rare and wonderful blend of skill, professionalism and dedication. He was always there when the need arose. For friend and victim alike he was there to help. His strong firm Midwest beliefs fortified his faith in Justice and impassioned his drive and insistence that all Hollywood murders be solved

How many times do we all remember his year end admonition that, “85 % clearance rate is not good enough.” How many times do we all remember during “slow” months, Russ’s insistence on pulling out the unsolved books and finding the answers he knew were there and had been overlooked by us due to busier times?

Russell Lee Kuster was one of a kind. Like his heroes, John Wayne and General George Patton. Russ was an individual who never wavered in his personal beliefs. You always knew where he stood. This was true if you were a probationer at your first crime scene, or if you were a deputy chief at your 500th.

My heart goes out to all of you at Hollywood Detectives in these hours of grief. Cherish, as I do the fun and tragic times you had with this man. Cherish and remember the spirit of dedication he proudly exemplified. And finally, smile in remembrance that Russ in his final moments made sure that Los Angeles would not be burdened with another “whodunit” as he sent the “Son-Of-A-Bitch” to hell.

Love in Brotherhood
Steve Hodel LAPD Retired

Take care "Roy"

Det. Addison Arce
LAPD Robbery Homicide MCIS

November 24, 2005

Russ was my partner when I went to work homicide. He was a great teacher. He became my supervisor but most of all he was a very good friend.

Detective Sergeant Hank Petroski
Los Angeles Police Department

November 23, 2005

"This is your Dad calling" Russ enjoyed a close relationship with his police family. He was a friend. Family and friends are very proud of his actions taken under the most difficult of circumstances

Gary Brutsch
L.A.P.D

November 23, 2005

Russ -

I remember arriving at work in the hours after you died. We absolutely could not believe what had happened. Your standing up to your killer was (and still is) an inspiration to us all. Sleep well, brother, we'll join up soon enough. God bless you.

Sgt. K. Moreland
LAPD

November 10, 2005

15 years ago today and not forgotten! Your action was nothing less than heroic! Thank you!!!

October 9, 2005

Uncommon valor was a common virtue for you Detective Kuster.
Now you shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever, for you feared no evil and you destroyed it when you had no other choice.
Your incredible bravery and fortitude are an example for everyone to follow.
Rest in peace HERO!

Retired police officer.

August 11, 2004

I have to take a moment to say to this fine dedicated officer's family thankyou for the sacrifices you made and had to endore with the long hours and days he couldn't be there,however I will say this in memory of the creep who he encountered,good shot officer kuster''.

Spc.Ruiz
military police dept.

December 29, 2003

Rest easy BLUE ANGEL, you are NOT forgotten.

Anonymous

October 20, 2003