Russell Taylor is an early enemy of Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson because she replaced him as head of the Priority Homicide Division after a botched case. He worked his way up to captain after 21 years with the department. He tries to rally her squad against her and enlists Lt. Andy Flynn to report back to him about her. Taylor often lets departmental politics overshadow police work and is a constant headache for Brenda. Assistant Chief Will Pope often plays referee between the two. Taylor is manipulative and works hard to undermine Brenda at every turn. Taylor loves addressing the media.Background: He encourages people in his squad to continue their education, including Sgt. David Gabriel.