The Christmas Eve Murders: Cindy, the Deputy Sheriff

In The Christmas Eve Murders, the murder investigation is spearheaded by Detective Ryan of the NYPD, ably assisted by Cadet Tony Vincenti. After following a lead that takes them up the Hudson River into an isolated area of the Catskills, they are welcomed to Stone Ridge by local law enforcement. Deputy Sheriff Cindy is only too happy to have the chance to participate in some real police investigations, rather than tracking down escaped cattle from Old Man Johnson's farm, again!

Cindy acts as the right hand to the Sheriff of Stone Ridge, a quiet backwater town in upstate New York. She serves as the local boots-on-the-ground liaison for the NYPD, and is the first port of call for Detective Ryan when he arrives in Stone Ridge. Although mightily attached to the cuddly cow named Lucy that she keeps as office mascot, Cindy has a sharp mind, and her preparatory legwork provides Detective Ryan with the much needed head start, if they are to have any hope of getting back to the city for Christmas.

Having been briefed by her boss, the local sheriff, Cindy has done her homework and compiled a list of the key "persons of interest" in Stone Ridge. Using her local insider knowledge of the village and its residents, she is the ideal resource to turbo charge Detective Ryan's inquiries. Cindy is also not afraid of rolling up her sleeves to lend some extra support in traversing the roads of Stone Ridge when the weather worsens. It just might be the most exciting day in her career so far!

Cindy is a dedicated professional, familiar with the local Catskills geography, and vital for helping Detective Ryan navigate the small-town community dynamics. She enthusiastically offers immediate local context and knowledge to support the murder investigation, before the winter snowstorm completely buries the trail of clues. With her assistance, Ryan and Tony stand a good chance of resolving their case file.