Top 20 Crime TV Shows Ever: Audience Favorites Revealed!

Are you a sucker for suspense, a devotee of detective dramas, or a fanatic for forensic fiction? If you’ve ever found yourself glued to the screen, heart pounding, as you try to solve the mystery before the TV detective does, then you’re in the right place! Welcome to our countdown of the “Top 20 Crime TV Shows Ever: Audience Favorites Revealed!” We’ve scoured ratings, reviews, and rerun schedules to compile a list of the most gripping, mind-bending, and downright addictive crime shows that have ever graced the small screen. From gritty noir thrillers to clever whodunits, these are the series that have kept us on the edge of our seats, biting our nails, and, let’s be honest, checking the locks on our doors. So, grab your magnifying glass, dust off your deerstalker hat, and let’s dive into the dark and captivating world of crime TV. The game is afoot!
Breaking Bad

Breaking Bad

Release Date: 2008-01-20

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Breaking Bad” is a gripping crime TV show that follows the journey of Walter White, a chemistry teacher diagnosed with cancer. Faced with limited time and a desire to secure his family’s future, Walter delves into the dangerous world of drugs and crime. With an incredible cast including Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, this award-winning series, which premiered on January 20, 2008, will keep you on the edge of your seat as you witness Walter’s transformation from a mild-mannered teacher to a ruthless criminal mastermind.

Cast: Bryan Cranston (Walter White) , Aaron Paul (Jesse Pinkman) , Anna Gunn (Skyler White) , Dean Norris (Hank Schrader) , Jonathan Banks (Mike Ehrmantraut) , Bob Odenkirk (Saul Goodman) , Betsy Brandt (Marie Schrader) , RJ Mitte (Walter White Jr.)

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Tags: drug dealer, psychopath, new mexico, terminal illness, outlaw, tragedy, cancer, drugs, criminal, meth lab, high school teacher, dea agent, narcissism, neo-western, narcissist, albuquerque, new mexico, criminal lawyer, fall from grace, cartel, mexican cartel, male egos, crystal meth, methamphetamine, thriller

Better Call Saul

Better Call Saul

Release Date: 2015-02-08

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Better Call Saul” is a gripping crime TV show that takes us back in time, six years before the events of “Breaking Bad.” It follows the journey of Jimmy McGill, a struggling lawyer trying to find his place in the world while dealing with financial hardships. Alongside him is the enigmatic “fixer” Mike Ehrmantraut, as they navigate the murky world of law and crime. With a stellar cast including Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks, this series delves into the transformation of Jimmy into the infamous criminal lawyer, Saul Goodman. Premiering in 2015, it has become one of the best voted crime TV shows of all time.

Cast: Bob Odenkirk (Jimmy McGill) , Jonathan Banks (Mike Ehrmantraut) , Rhea Seehorn (Kim Wexler) , Patrick Fabian (Howard Hamlin) , Michael Mando (Nacho Varga) , Tony Dalton (Lalo Salamanca) , Giancarlo Esposito (Gustavo Fring)

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Tags: new mexico, moral conflict, crooked lawyer, romance, prequel, tragedy, brother against brother, spin off, albuquerque, new mexico, criminal lawyer, fall from grace, neo-noir, mexican cartel, legal drama, black comedy, crime drama

Peaky Blinders

Peaky Blinders

Release Date: 2013-09-12

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Peaky Blinders” is a gripping crime TV show set in 1919 Birmingham, England. It follows the story of a gang who cleverly hide razor blades in their caps, led by the ambitious and fierce boss Tommy Shelby, played by the talented Cillian Murphy. With a stellar cast including Paul Anderson, Sophie Rundle, and Natasha O’Keeffe, this show takes you on an epic journey through the world of gangsters and their quest for power. Premiering in 2013, it has become one of the best voted crime TV shows of all time.

Cast: Cillian Murphy (Tommy Shelby) , Paul Anderson (Arthur Shelby) , Sophie Rundle (Ada Shelby) , Natasha O’Keeffe (Lizzie Stark)

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Tags: corruption, england, gypsy, gangster, outlaw, drugs, criminal, period drama, historical, british history, protection racket, illegal gambling, historical drama, bookmaker, 1920s, 1910s, birmingham, modern history, zohaib

Sherlock

Sherlock

Release Date: 2010-07-25

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Sherlock” is a captivating crime TV show that brings the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes into the modern era. Set in 21st century London, Sherlock and his partner, a doctor named John Watson, use their brilliant minds to solve complex mysteries. With an incredible cast including Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, this show has been widely acclaimed since its release in 2010.

Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock Holmes) , Martin Freeman (John Watson) , Una Stubbs (Mrs. Hudson) , Rupert Graves (DI Greg Lestrade) , Louise Brealey (Molly Hooper) , Mark Gatiss (Mycroft Holmes) , Andrew Scott (Jim Moriarty) , Amanda Abbington (Mary Morstan)

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Writers: Arthur Conan Doyle

Tags: london, england, based on novel or book, detective, investigation, murder, private detective, murder mystery, sherlock holmes, great detective

Girl from Nowhere

Girl from Nowhere

Release Date: 2018-10-27

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

“Girl from Nowhere” is a captivating crime TV show that follows the enigmatic Nanno, a brilliant girl who constantly changes schools. With her sharp wit, she uncovers the hidden secrets and wrongdoings of both students and faculty, leaving no stone unturned. Starring Chicha Amatayakul, this thrilling series premiered on October 27, 2018, and is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Chicha Amatayakul (Nanno)

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Tags: high school, rape, supernatural, gore, bullying, anthology, revenge, murder, betrayal, school, death, social issues, extreme violence, psychological horror

The Wire

The Wire

Release Date: 2002-06-02

Genres: Crime, Drama

“The Wire” is a gripping crime TV show that takes you into the gritty world of Baltimore’s homicide and narcotics detectives, as well as the criminals they pursue. Set in a universe where the war on drugs has become an unending bureaucracy, the series blurs the lines between good and evil. With a talented cast including Dominic West, Lance Reddick, and Sonja Sohn, “The Wire” first hit our screens on June 2, 2002, and has since become one of the best voted crime TV shows of all time.

Cast: Dominic West (Jimmy McNulty) , Lance Reddick (Cedric Daniels) , Sonja Sohn (Kima Greggs) , Wendell Pierce (Bunk Moreland) , Michael Kenneth Williams (Omar Little) , Deirdre Lovejoy (Rhonda Pearlman) , J.D. Williams (Bodie Broadus) , Jamie Hector (Marlo Stanfield) , Aidan Gillen (Tommy Carcetti) , Andre Royo (Bubbles) , Seth Gilliam (Ellis Carver) , Domenick Lombardozzi (Herc) , Corey Parker Robinson (Leander Sydnor) , Isiah Whitlock Jr. (Clay Davis) , Michael Kostroff (Maurice Levy) , John Doman (William Rawls) , Reg E. Cathey (Norman Wilson) , Clark Johnson (Augustus Haynes) , Tom McCarthy (Scott Templeton) , Gbenga Akinnagbe (Chris Partlow) , Neal Huff (Michael Steintorf) , Jermaine Crawford (Duquan “Dukie” Weems) , Tristan Mack Wilds (Michael Lee) , Michelle Paress (Alma Gutierrez)

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Tags: drug dealer, newspaper, corruption, police, gangster, baltimore, usa, organized crime, police detective, surveillance, power politics, urban decay, newspaper reporter, workers union, education system, docks, black project, violence

Tulsa King

Tulsa King

Release Date: 2022-11-13

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Tulsa King” is an exciting crime TV show that follows the story of Dwight “The General” Manfredi, a former mafia capo who is unexpectedly sent to Tulsa, Oklahoma, after serving 25 years in prison. Feeling betrayed by his mob family, Dwight assembles an unlikely crew to help him establish a new criminal empire in this unfamiliar territory. With an impressive cast including Sylvester Stallone and Dana Delany, this thrilling series is set to premiere on November 13, 2022. Get ready for an intriguing tale of redemption, power, and unexpected alliances in the heartland of America.

Cast: Sylvester Stallone (Dwight ‘The General’ Manfredi) , Andrea Savage (Stacy Beale) , Max Casella (Armand Truisi) , Martin Starr (Lawrence ‘Bodhi’ Geigerman) , Domenick Lombardozzi (Charles ‘Chickie’ Invernizzi) , Vincent Piazza (Vince Antonacci) , Jay Will (Tyson Mitchell) , Alan C. Peterson (Pete ‘The Rock’ Invernizzi) , Garrett Hedlund (Mitch Keller) , Dana Delany (Margaret Devereaux)

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Tags: fish out of water, sicilian mafia, tulsa, oklahoma

Lucifer

Lucifer

Release Date: 2016-01-25

Genres: Crime, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Lucifer” is a captivating crime TV show that follows the story of Lucifer Morningstar, the former Lord of Hell, who decides to leave his throne and settle in Los Angeles. Teaming up with LAPD detective Chloe Decker, they work together to bring down criminals. As Lucifer spends more time away from the underworld, the danger of the worst of humanity escaping grows. With a talented cast including Tom Ellis, Lauren German, and Kevin Alejandro, this thrilling series premiered on January 25, 2016, and has become one of the best-voted crime TV shows of all time.

Cast: Tom Ellis (Lucifer Morningstar / Michael) , Lauren German (Chloe Decker) , Kevin Alejandro (Dan Espinoza) , D.B. Woodside (Amenadiel) , Lesley-Ann Brandt (Mazikeen “Maze”) , Aimee Garcia (Ella Lopez) , Rachael Harris (Linda Martin) , Brianna Hildebrand (Rory)

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Writers: Neil Gaiman, Sam Kieth, Mike Dringenberg

Tags: based on comic, los angeles, california, devil, lapd

Riverdale

Riverdale

Release Date: 2017-01-26

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Riverdale” is a captivating crime TV show that takes a fresh and edgy approach to the beloved characters from the Archie comics. Set in the present, it delves into the mysterious and dark underbelly of small-town life in Riverdale, where secrets and strange occurrences lurk beneath the town’s seemingly idyllic surface. With a talented cast including K.J. Apa, Lili Reinhart, Camila Mendes, and Cole Sprouse, this series premiered on January 26, 2017, and has since become a fan favorite.

Cast: K.J. Apa (Archie Andrews) , Lili Reinhart (Betty Cooper) , Camila Mendes (Veronica Lodge) , Cole Sprouse (Jughead Jones) , Madelaine Petsch (Cheryl Blossom) , Casey Cott (Kevin Keller) , Charles Melton (Reggie Mantle) , Drew Ray Tanner (Fangs Fogarty) , Vanessa Morgan (Toni Topaz) , Mädchen Amick (Alice Cooper)

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Writers: Chrissy Maroon, Evan Kyle

Tags: high school, small town, love triangle, killing, based on comic, school, group of friends, grudge, young adult, teenager

Chicago P.D.

Chicago P.D.

Release Date: 2014-01-08

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Chicago P.D.” is a gripping crime TV show that follows the brave men and women of the Chicago Police Department’s District 21 as they risk their lives to protect their community. With a mix of street cops and an elite Intelligence Unit, they tackle everything from street crimes to major offenses like organized crime and drug trafficking. Starring Jason Beghe, Tracy Spiridakos, Marina Squerciati, Patrick John Flueger, LaRoyce Hawkins, Benjamin Levy Aguilar, and Amy Morton, this intense drama has been captivating audiences since its release on January 8, 2014.

Cast: Jason Beghe (Hank Voight) , Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton) , Marina Squerciati (Kim Burgess) , Patrick John Flueger (Adam Ruzek) , LaRoyce Hawkins (Kevin Atwater) , Benjamin Levy Aguilar (Dante Torres) , Amy Morton (Trudy Platt)

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Writers: Elena Perez, Jeffrey M. Lee

Tags: chicago, illinois, police, spin off, crime investigation

Sons of Anarchy

Sons of Anarchy

Release Date: 2008-09-03

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Sons of Anarchy” is an adrenaline-fueled crime drama with a touch of dark humor. Set in the charming town of Charming, California, it follows a notorious outlaw motorcycle club’s quest to protect their livelihood while facing threats from drug dealers, corporate developers, and law enforcement. Led by a talented cast including Charlie Hunnam, Katey Sagal, and Jimmy Smits, this gripping series delves into the MC’s dangerous world of illegal arms business, where money, power, and blood intertwine. Premiering in 2008, it has become one of the best-voted crime TV shows of all time.

Cast: Charlie Hunnam (Jax Teller) , Katey Sagal (Gemma Teller Morrow) , Tommy Flanagan (Filip “Chibs” Telford) , Mark Boone Junior (Bobby Munson) , Kim Coates (Alex “Tig” Trager) , Dayton Callie (Wayne Unser) , David Labrava (Happy Lowman) , Drea de Matteo (Wendy Case) , Jimmy Smits (Nero Padilla) , Niko Nicotera (George ‘Ratboy’ Skogstrom) , Theo Rossi (Juan-Carlos ‘Juice’ Ortiz)

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Tags: outlaw, organized crime, motorcycle gang, criminal

The X-Files

The X-Files

Release Date: 1993-09-10

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery, Crime

“The X-Files” is a thrilling crime TV show that follows FBI Special Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigate unsolved cases involving paranormal phenomena. Mulder, a firm believer in aliens and the supernatural, teams up with Scully, a skeptic who uses scientific analysis to debunk his findings. With a release date in 1993, this show features captivating performances by lead actors David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, and Mitch Pileggi.

Cast: David Duchovny (Fox Mulder) , Gillian Anderson (Dana Scully) , Mitch Pileggi (Walter Skinner)

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Tags: fbi, investigation, supernatural, paranormal phenomena, alien, ufo, conspiracy, paranormal investigation, phenomenon, american folklore, supernatural power

The Mentalist

The Mentalist

Release Date: 2008-09-23

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“The Mentalist” is a captivating crime TV show that premiered on September 23, 2008. Starring Simon Baker, Robin Tunney, Tim Kang, Rockmond Dunbar, Joe Adler, and Josie Loren, the series follows Patrick Jane, a former celebrity psychic medium, as he uses his exceptional observation skills to help the California Bureau of Investigation solve serious crimes. With its intriguing storyline and talented cast, “The Mentalist” is definitely one of the best crime TV shows of all time.

Cast: Simon Baker (Patrick Jane) , Robin Tunney (Teresa Lisbon) , Tim Kang (Kimball Cho) , Rockmond Dunbar (Dennis Abbott) , Joe Adler (Jason Wylie) , Josie Loren (Michelle Vega)

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Tags: california, con man, cop, serial killer, criminal investigation, forensic psychology, criminal consultant, police procedural

Defending Jacob

Defending Jacob

Release Date: 2020-04-24

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

“Defending Jacob” is a gripping crime TV show that follows the lives of a family torn apart when their 14-year-old son is accused of murdering a classmate. Starring Chris Evans, Michelle Dockery, and Jaeden Martell, this intense series delves into the complexities of the justice system and the lengths a family will go to protect their own. Get ready for a thrilling ride when it premieres on April 24, 2020.

Cast: Chris Evans (Andy Barber) , Michelle Dockery (Laurie Barber) , Jaeden Martell (Jacob Barber) , Cherry Jones (Joanna Klein) , Jordan Alexa Davis (Sarah Grohl) , Pablo Schreiber (Neal Logiudice) , Betty Gabriel (Pam Duffy) , Sakina Jaffrey (Lynn Canavan) , Ben Taylor (Derek Yoo) , Daniel Henshall (Leonard Patz)

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Writers: William Landay

Tags: high school, husband wife relationship, based on novel or book, detective, investigation, knife, bullying, murder, lawyer, miniseries, teenage boy, murder suspect

Euphoria

Euphoria

Release Date: 2019-06-16

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Euphoria” is a gripping crime TV show that has made it to the list of the 20 best voted crime TV shows of all time. Set in a high school, it follows a group of students as they navigate the complexities of love, friendships, and the dark realities of drugs, sex, trauma, and social media. With a talented cast including Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, and Sydney Sweeney, this series premiered on June 16, 2019, and promises an intense and captivating viewing experience.

Cast: Zendaya (Rue Bennett) , Hunter Schafer (Jules Vaughn) , Sydney Sweeney (Cassie Howard) , Alexa Demie (Maddy Perez) , Angus Cloud (Fezco O’Neill) , Javon Walton (Ashtray) , Barbie Ferreira (Kat Hernandez) , Maude Apatow (Lexi Howard) , Dominic Fike (Elliot) , Storm Reid (Gia Bennett) , Nika King (Leslie Bennett) , Eric Dane (Cal Jacobs) , Austin Abrams (Ethan Lewis) , Jacob Elordi (Nate Jacobs)

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Writers: Daphna Levin, Ron Leshem

Tags: drug crime, sex scandal, sex addiction, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), relationship problems, childhood trauma, addiction, drug use, coming of age, love-hate relationship, sexual freedom, drug rehabilitation, teenage girl, female protagonist, high school student, painful memories, peer pressure, pornography addiction, addiction recovery, 2010s, abusive family, 2020s

Criminal Minds

Criminal Minds

Release Date: 2005-09-22

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Criminal Minds” is a gripping crime TV show that has earned its place among the 20 best voted crime TV shows of all time. The series follows an elite team of FBI profilers, led by the experienced agent David Rossi, as they delve into the minds of twisted criminals, predicting their next moves before they strike again. With a talented cast including Joe Mantegna, Adam Rodríguez, Aisha Tyler, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness, and Paget Brewster, this show has been captivating audiences since its release in 2005.

Cast: Joe Mantegna (David Rossi) , Adam Rodríguez (Luke Alvez) , Aisha Tyler (Tara Lewis) , A.J. Cook (Jennifer Jareau) , Kirsten Vangsness (Penelope Garcia) , Paget Brewster (Emily Prentiss)

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Tags: fbi, criminal mastermind, criminal profiler, crime investigation, special agent, criminology, police procedural

Fargo

Fargo

Release Date: 2014-04-15

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Fargo” is a critically acclaimed anthology series set in Minnesota that explores gripping stories of malice, violence, and murder. With an impressive cast including Chris Rock, Jessie Buckley, and Jason Schwartzman, this show has been captivating audiences since its release in 2014. If you’re a fan of crime TV shows, “Fargo” is definitely a must-watch!

Cast: Chris Rock (Loy Cannon) , Jessie Buckley (Oraetta Mayflower) , Jason Schwartzman (Josto Fadda) , Ben Whishaw (Patrick “Rabbi” Milligan) , Jack Huston (Odis Weff) , Salvatore Esposito (Gaetano Fadda) , Emyri Crutchfield (Ethelrida Pearl Smutny) , Andrew Bird (Thurman Smutny) , Anji White (Dibrell Smutny) , Jeremie Harris (Leon Bittle) , Matthew Elam (Lemuel Cannon) , Corey Hendrix (Omie Sparkman) , James Vincent Meredith (Opal Rackley) , Francesco Acquaroli (Ebal Violante) , Gaetano Bruno (Constant Calamita) , Karen Aldridge (Zelmare Roulette)

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Tags: detective, minnesota, dark comedy, deputy, anthology, killer, murder investigation, neo-noir

White Collar

White Collar

Release Date: 2009-10-23

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“White Collar” is a captivating crime TV show that follows the story of Neal Caffrey, a skilled con man and thief who is finally caught by the FBI after a thrilling three-year chase. However, things take an unexpected turn when Neal strikes a deal with FBI agent Peter Burke to help him catch other white collar criminals in exchange for his freedom. With a talented cast including Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, Willie Garson, Tiffani Thiessen, Marsha Thomason, and Sharif Atkins, this show, which premiered on October 23, 2009, promises an unconventional and exciting ride through the world of high-stakes crime.

Cast: Matt Bomer (Neal Caffrey) , Tim DeKay (Peter Burke) , Willie Garson (Mozzie) , Tiffani Thiessen (Elizabeth Burke) , Marsha Thomason (Diana Barrigan) , Sharif Atkins (Clinton Jones)

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Tags: new york city, fbi, con man, art thief, ex-con, gentleman thief, white collar criminal, forger, criminal consultant, colleague

Mare of Easttown

Mare of Easttown

Release Date: 2021-04-18

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

“Mare of Easttown” is a gripping crime TV show that has made it to the list of the 20 best voted crime TV shows of all time. Set in a small Pennsylvania town, the series follows a detective, played by Kate Winslet, as she investigates a local murder while dealing with the challenges in her own life. With a talented cast including Jean Smart, Julianne Nicholson, and Evan Peters, this highly anticipated show premiered on April 18, 2021, promising an intense and captivating storyline.

Cast: Kate Winslet (Marianne ‘Mare’ Sheehan) , Jean Smart (Helen Fahey) , Julianne Nicholson (Lori Ross) , Angourie Rice (Siobhan Sheehan) , Evan Peters (Colin Zabel) , Sosie Bacon (Carrie Layden) , David Denman (Frank Sheehan) , Neal Huff (Dan Hastings) , James McArdle (Mark Burton) , Guy Pearce (Richard Ryan) , Cailee Spaeny (Erin McMenamin) , John Douglas Thompson (Chief Carter) , Joe Tippett (John Ross)

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Tags: small town, suicide, drug abuse, pennsylvania, usa, therapist, detective, investigation, dysfunctional family, alcoholism, murder, disappearance, catholic priest

Bones

Bones

Release Date: 2005-09-13

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Bones” is a gripping crime TV show that follows the brilliant Dr. Temperance Brennan and her team at the Jeffersonian’s Medico-Legal Lab. Together with Special Agent Seeley Booth, they tackle murder investigations involving badly decomposed, burned, or destroyed remains. With a talented cast including Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, and more, this show has been captivating audiences since its release in 2005.

Cast: Emily Deschanel (Temperance “Bones” Brennan) , David Boreanaz (Seeley Booth) , John Boyd (James Aubrey) , Michaela Conlin (Angela Montenegro) , Tamara Taylor (Camille Saroyan) , T.J. Thyne (Jack Hodgins)

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Tags: washington dc, usa, fbi, crime lab, forensic science, murder investigation, crime investigation, forensic archaeology

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