Lee Lerussi has a career in law enforcement that spans over three decades, marked by his expertise in cybercrimes, anti-terrorism, and investigations. His journey began as a Peace Officer in St. Clair Township, Ohio, where he dedicated 14 years to various roles, including training officer and firearms instructor. And he served on the County multi-jurisdictional SRT team. This foundation equipped him for subsequent specialized positions across his career.
In 2013, Mr. Lerussi began contributing internationally as a Subject Matter Expert for the U.S. State Department’s Global Anti-Terrorism Assistance Program. His expertise contributed significantly to the program, leading him to found LeeLand Consulting, Inc. in 2022. Through his consulting firm, he continues to provide valuable training and mentorship in national security issues, cybercrimes, and counterterrorism. Mr. Lerussi currently serves as an embedded mentor deployed to antiterrorism and digital forensic units overseas for Constellis, LLC, a Triple Canopy company.
In 1998, Mr. Lerussi joined the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), where he served until his retirement as a Senior Special Agent in 2021. Initially focusing on white collar crimes and health care fraud investigations, in 2002 he transferred to BCI headquarters. There, he became one of the founding agents of the newly established Computer Crimes Unit, addressing the burgeoning challenges of cybercrimes statewide. His expertise led him to roles in BCI's Cyber Crimes field offices in Richfield and Youngstown, Ohio where his contributions included significant digital forensic investigations.
He is certified as both an International and National Instructor by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training. Mr. Lerussi was an invited speaker at the National Association of Attorneys General Conference on Advanced Cybercrime. Ohio. He has also presented workshops and training on the topics of investigating terrorist incidents, foreign fighter terrorists and operators, investigations of computer crimes, conducting cyber-enabled investigations, internet-based crimes, and identifying cell phone evidence.
Mr. Lerussi has also been an adjunct instructor for the National White Collar Crime Center. He maintains his commission as a Deputy Sheriff (Reserve) in Columbiana County, Ohio, and continues to serve as an instructor in the Ohio Peace Officers’ Basic Training Academy.
Mr. Lerussi holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Heidelberg University, with further postgraduate studies at Kent State University and Youngstown State University. His commitment to professional growth is underscored by certifications from institutions such as the SANS Institute, the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists, and Cellebrite, alongside advanced training with the FBI, NW3C, the United States Secret Service and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.
Throughout his career, Mr. Lerussi has been recognized with numerous awards, including a Valor award from the local Fraternal Order of Police Lodge and selection as Member of the Year by the State FOP Lodge of Ohio. He received the Ohio Distinguished Law Enforcement Group Achievement Award for leadership during a critical incident and has been honored by the FBI and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for successful prosecutions and his dedication to complex investigations. Additionally, he was awarded the Certificate of Meritorious Service by Peter Elliott, US Marshal for the Northern District of Ohio.
Mr. Lerussi continues to apply his experience at LeeLand Consulting, aiding law enforcement in partner nations and communities across the United States. His work continues to reflect his deep commitment to public service and addressing evolving challenges in law enforcement, particularly in cyber-crimes and counterterrorism.
You can connect with Mr. Lerussi at www.leelandinc.com; or on LinkedIn.