Crimesider's Biggest Crime Stories of 2015
The year 2015 was marked by mass shootings, protests over police-involved killings and allegations against celebrities.
Freddie Gray
Lives on the line: Reflections on covering 2015's tough stories
CBS Evening News anchor Scott Pelley reflects on another challenging -- and dangerous -- year for journalists covering tough stories
Photos of the week
The most compelling photos from the week's news, December 12-18, 2015, including a Brit in space, LA school closings and mountain climbing Santas
Freddie Gray's family reacts to mistrial
Marchers protest peacefully after jury deadlocks in trial of William Porter, the first of six police officers to be tried for involvement in Gray's death
Hung jury in first Freddie Gray trial
Judge says jury had "clearly been diligent" before he dismissed them and declared a mistrial for Officer William Porter
Reaction to mistrial in Freddie Gray case
A deadlocked Baltimore jury declared a mistrial for Police Officer William Porter over his involvement in the death of Freddie Gray
After deadlock, Freddie Gray trial jury presses on
Judge ordered jurors to keep talking and decide the fate of Officer William Porter, as Baltimore prepares for the worst
Jury struggling in first Freddie Gray trial
Jurors to resume deliberations Wednesday after telling judge they were deadlocked in case against Baltimore Police Officer William Porter
Schools limit trips as Freddie Gray trial draws to close
Jurors began second day of deliberations in the trail of Officer William Porter, the outcome of which could have wide impact in Baltimore
Baltimore braces as first Freddie Gray trial closes
Jury deliberation have begun in trial of Officer William Porter; Baltimore opens emergency operations center in preparation
Defense rests in Freddie Gray death case
Baltimore Police Officer William Porter's defense attorneys rest their case after 3 days of testimony
Neurosurgeon testifies for cop at Freddie Gray trial
Expert witness gives his take on state autopsy report of black man who suffered spinal cord injury in police custody
Officer charged in Freddie Gray's death takes the stand
Officer William Porter has a simple answer when asked why Freddie Gray wasn't wearing a seat belt while riding in police wagon
Prosecution rests case in first Freddie Gray trial
Officer William Porter portrayed as indifferent for not calling a medic despite Gray's indication he needed help, among other things
Prosecutor: Officer on trial failed to help Freddie Gray
Opening statements have begun in the trial for Officer William Porter, one of six Balitmore police officers charged in the death of Freddie Gray
Jury selected for first Freddie Gray trial
Eight women and four men will serve as jurors for the trial of Officer William Porter
75 new candidates in court for day 2 of Freddie Gray jury selection
The jury selection process could take a few days, but the judge said this first trial, for Officer William Porter, won't go past Dec. 17
Baltimore police prepare for Freddie Gray trials
Baltimore's new police commissioner Kevin Davis says his department is ready for whatever may come during the trials
Freddie Gray case to draw from pool of 80 potential jurors, black and white
The jury selection process could take a few days, but the judge said this first trial won't go past Dec. 17
The first Freddie Gray trial gets underway in Baltimore
Officer William Porter is the first of the six officers facing charges in Baltimore. There will be separate trials for each of the officers
Jury selection to begin in first Freddie Gray trial
Officer William Porter could spend at least 10 years in prison if convicted for his alleged role in the death of the 25-year-old black man
A year after grand jury decision, Ferguson has "a ways to go"
Signs of hope emerge in St. Louis suburb but other cities on edge after black men were slain by police or died in police custody
1st officer to be tried in Gray case plans to testify
Officer William Porter is the first of six Baltimore officers to stand trial for the death of Freddie Gray, 25, who was critically injured in police custody
Baltimore rioter sentenced for CVS pharmacy on fire
Raymon Carter set the building on fire during the riots following Freddie Gray's death in April; he was only found guilty of rioting, not arson
Baltimore mom who pulled son from riots still can't find peace
Six months since Freddie Gray died and unrest unfolded in the streets of Baltimore, Toya Graham admits her family is struggling
Live
Tehran threatens to retaliate after U.S. attacks vital Iranian oil hub
President Trump said that other countries would join the U.S. in sending warships to the Strait of Hormuz, but did not share more specifics.
Exclusive
FCC Chair Brendan Carr says broadcast licenses are not a "property right"
In an exclusive interview with CBS News Saturday, Federal Communications Chair Brendan Carr doubled down on his warning that broadcast licenses could be revoked amid President Trump's criticisms of media coverage of the war in Iran.
What to know about Kharg Island, the Iranian oil site struck by U.S.
Kharg Island is a small, heavily fortified, and strategically valuable island off Iran's northern coast.
White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
U.S. offers $10 million, chance to relocate for info on Iran's leaders
The State Department is seeking information on Iran's new supreme leader and nine other "key leaders" in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
Trump thanks TSA agents working with no pay amid government shutdown
TSA officers faced their first full missed paycheck Friday.
Russian strike on Kyiv region kills 4 people and wounds at least 15
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and critical infrastructure, officials said.
U.S.
More U.S.
Murder-for-hire scheme uncovered in investigation of slain teacher
Jocelyn Peters, a beloved third grade teacher in St. Louis, Missouri, was shot to death in her sleep. The crime scene held an unusual clue – something one detective says he had never seen before.
2 former federal workers turned their firings into a movement to help others
Within days of their firings, two former federal workers launched a support group for fellow colleagues in the same situation. What started out as 20 people has grown to almost 5,000 members nationwide.
U.S. identifies 6 service members killed in refueling aircraft crash in Iraq
Six U.S. service members who were killed in a military refueling aircraft crash over Iraq last week have been identified as members of the Ohio Air National Guard and Florida-based crew members.
Exclusive
FCC Chair Brendan Carr says broadcast licenses are not a "property right"
In an exclusive interview with CBS News Saturday, Federal Communications Chair Brendan Carr doubled down on his warning that broadcast licenses could be revoked amid President Trump's criticisms of media coverage of the war in Iran.
White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
How would escorting oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz work?
With oil markets paralyzed by the U.S.-Iran war, the Trump administration says it could escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz — a massive undertaking that experts say could already be in the preparatory stages.
Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas
U.S. gas prices are surging as the Iran war drives up the global cost of oil. But what exactly accounts for what you pay at the pump?
High oil prices are boosting airfares. These tips could save you money.
Planning a trip? Travel experts recommend booking your flight soon as the Iran war drives up airline and ticket costs.
These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
Toyota recalls 550,000 Highlander SUVs because seats may fail to lock
Parts defect affecting Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles can increase the risk of injury, according to a safety notice. Here's what to know.
Politics
More Politics
2 former federal workers turned their firings into a movement to help others
Within days of their firings, two former federal workers launched a support group for fellow colleagues in the same situation. What started out as 20 people has grown to almost 5,000 members nationwide.
Exclusive
FCC Chair Brendan Carr says broadcast licenses are not a "property right"
In an exclusive interview with CBS News Saturday, Federal Communications Chair Brendan Carr doubled down on his warning that broadcast licenses could be revoked amid President Trump's criticisms of media coverage of the war in Iran.
3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
A dad's colon cancer spread to lungs. He says what happened next was a miracle.
Spencer Laird was diagnosed with colon cancer at 26. At 30, he was told it had returned and spread to his lungs, with one tumor the size of a golf ball.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
"I was fighting to survive": Patients still struggle with preauthorization hurdles
Last summer, the Trump administration announced a voluntary pledge by health insurers to reform prior authorization, but patient advocates and medical providers remain skeptical.
World
More World
U.S. identifies 6 service members killed in refueling aircraft crash in Iraq
Six U.S. service members who were killed in a military refueling aircraft crash over Iraq last week have been identified as members of the Ohio Air National Guard and Florida-based crew members.
3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
Pope Leo moves into papal residence eschewed by Pope Francis
His predecessor, Pope Francis, lived in a simple apartment in the Santa Marta guesthouse in the Vatican.
What to know about Kharg Island, the Iranian oil site struck by U.S.
Kharg Island is a small, heavily fortified, and strategically valuable island off Iran's northern coast.
Russian strike on Kyiv region kills at least 6 people and wounds dozens
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and critical infrastructure, officials said.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Entertainment
Why the paparazzi aren't what they once were
The Academy Awards are on Sunday night and Hollywood's biggest stars will be under the watchful eye of the paparazzi. Barry Petersen reports that those who once made a lot of money for their shots are no longer.
Meet one of the last true paparazzi
Pascal Rostain, one of the last-standing "traditional" paparazzi photographers, talks to "CBS Saturday Morning" about how the industry has changed in a world of smartphones and social media.
Oscars 2026 predictions
Kat Rosenfield, a culture writer for the Free Press, joins "CBS Saturday Morning" to preview the 98th Academy Awards and discuss her new novel, "How to Survive in Woods." The Free Press is a Paramount publication.
Jay Buchanan performs "Deep Swimming"
Jay Buchanan is the frontman for the Grammy-nominated rock group Rival Sons. Outside of the band, he's collaborated with Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Bee Gees' Barry Gibb. His debut solo album, Weapons of Beauty, is out now. Here's Jay Buchanan performing "Deep Swimming."
Jay Buchanan performs "Sway"
Jay Buchanan is the frontman for the Grammy-nominated rock group Rival Sons. Outside of the band, he's collaborated with Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and the Bee Gees' Barry Gibb. His debut solo album, Weapons of Beauty, is out now. Here's Jay Buchanan performing "Sway."
Technology
More Technology
Technology
Solar farm development faces pushback
A community in Alabama is pushing back against a solar farm that would power an artificial intelligence data center in the state. CBS News reporter Kati Weis has more.
Jury deliberates in social media trial
Jury deliberations are underway in a landmark social media trial about addiction claims. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has the details.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
Science
More Science
Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
How Washington's crossing of the Delaware presaged a changing world
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in a surprise crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River - a watershed military maneuver that dramatized a changing America, and a changing climate.
Crime
More Crime
Murder-for-hire scheme uncovered in investigation of slain teacher
Jocelyn Peters, a beloved third grade teacher in St. Louis, Missouri, was shot to death in her sleep. The crime scene held an unusual clue – something one detective says he had never seen before.
Players Championship start delayed amid manhunt for murder suspect
Suspect Christian Barrios, 32, shot two people multiple times Friday night, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said.
Judge in Charlie Kirk murder case makes ruling on media access
Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Tyler Robinson, 22, who is charged with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk.
FBI: Synagogue attacker died by suicide
The suspect in the Michigan synagogue attack died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the FBI said at a news conference on Friday. CBS News correspondent Ash-har Quraishi has the latest.
Officials give update on synagogue attack
Officials in Michigan gave an update about Thursday's synagogue car ramming attack that the FBI is investigating as a "targeted act of violence against the Jewish community." CBS News national security contributor Sam Vinograd has more.
Space
More Space
Space
Bill Nye on going from Boeing to science guy
Bill Nye the Science Guy sits down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to talk about his life and career.
NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Jocelyn Peters and the Notebook
Why did a man eat pages from a notebook when facing questions about the murder of a third grade teacher? "48 Hours" correspondent Anne-Marie Green reports.
Watch: TSA lines amid DHS shutdown
Since the Department of Homeland Security shut down last month, Transportation Security Administration employees have been working without pay. Travelers around the U.S. saw long lines and delays as the agency grappled with staffing shortages and resignations.
Choke Point | Sunday on 60 Minutes
Iranian attacks on tankers and cargo ships have choked the flow of oil and goods through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage connecting Persian Gulf oil producers to global markets. The disruption threatens to drive U.S. gas prices to record highs.
Two fired federal workers helping others like them
Two former federal workers are turning their firings into a movement to help others. Nikole Killion has their story.
Fliers facing long lines in U.S. amid DHS shutdown
Fliers in the U.S. experienced long lines at security as TSA agents worked without pay. Tim McNicholas has more on the major problems looming this spring break.