Valerie Cruz was born on July 18, 1976 in Elizabeth, New Jersey. She studied at Florida State University where she acquired her degree in theatre. As an actress, she was popularly known for her inclusion in the medical drama Nip/Tuck. She also appeared in the movie Cellular. Her other TV credits included Grey's Anatomy, Crossing Jordan and Las Vegas. Moreover, she became part of the television series The Dresden Files as Lt. Connie Murphy. Lt. Connie Murphy is a police officer and was a former-head of the Chicago PD's Special Investigations group. In addition, he works with Harry on many occasions and is one of his closest friends. She also harbors romantic feelings for Harry but is does not want to act on it because it might ruin their relationship as friends.