Zerbrowski is the stereotypical rumpled, smart-alec, but highly competent detective, shrewd thinker, and a loyal friend and later unofficial partner to Anita when she works with RPIT. He also makes wisecracks about Anita's personal life and is a cheerful lech. Sometimes it's hard to tell if he's being serious or just kidding, and on some days Anita finds him very irritating. His car is what Anita calls "a toxic waste zone".