Who is Sheriff Cyrus Kuhtz from Drowning Ruth and what is their importance?

Sheriff Cyrus Kuhtz is a local farmer who does light law enforcement work on the side, Kuhtz learns from Amanda Starkey that her sister Mathilda (Starkey) Neumann has gone missing one cruel night in November. Mrs. Kuhtz, her face showing concern, invites Amanda and baby Ruth inside and assures them that Cy will bring her back. Kuhtz realizes that Amanda has crossed the ice from the island, which is the subject of local gossip. Late in the novel, Kuhtz handles the recovery of the body of wealthy Clement J. Owens, also a drowning victim. Affecting vast experience in such matters, Kuhtz overlooks evidence of foul play.