Judge John J. Russo Honored By US Marshals
Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court Judge John J. Russo has been honored as the Partner of the Year by the United States Marshals Service in the Northern District of Ohio. The award was presented at the USMS annual awards ceremony on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at Cleveland State University.
“I am grateful and incredibly honored to be recognized as Partner of the Year by U.S. Marshal Pete Elliot and his team,” said Judge Russo. “We can only do our individual jobs efficiently if we work together.”
Judge Russo was praised for his collaboration with justice system stakeholders during his term as Administrative and Presiding Judge of the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. Judge Russo was also honored for his work in legal education, mentorship, and after-hours support to law enforcement.
“His leadership, humility, innovation and steadfast commitment to justice and public service make (Judge Russo) a truly deserving candidate for this award,” the U.S. Marshals Service wrote in the event’s program.
Judge Russo has been on the Bench since 2005 and served as Administrative and Presiding Judge from 2013 though 2019. He is a graduate of St. Edward High School, John Carroll University, and received his law degree from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law.
This year’s ceremony included opening remarks by Cleveland State University President Dr. Laura Bloomberg and CSU Police Chief Beverly Pettrey. Speeches will also be given by former Browns Quarterback Bernie Kosar and Stipe Miocic, former professional mixed martial artist and graduate of Cleveland State University. Fraternal Order of Police President Jay McDonald also addressed the capacity crowd.
(FOP President Jay McDonald, US Marshal Pete Elliot, Judge John J. Russo)
