Crime Without Punishment | CBS Reports
In this CBS Reports documentary, Jim Axelrod peels back the curtain on a sobering reality of a justice system in crisis: For roughly half of the people murdered in America, no one is arrested for the crime.
Crime Without Punishment
A look at unsolved murders in America
A closer look at disparities in NYPD's homicide clearance rates
In a collaboration with CBS News, we examine a crime often going without punishment in our country. CBS2's Ali Bauman takes a closer look at racial disparities in homicide closure rates at the NYPD.
Oakland, San Francisco see disheartening difference in homicide clearance rates
Barely half of murder cases in the United States get solved. The national homicide clearance rate is at an all-time low, according to FBI data. Oakland and San Francisco are seeing a large difference on solved cases, as Wilson Walker reports.
She lost two sons to gun violence; five years later, still no arrests
Barely half of murder cases in the U.S. get solved. The national homicide clearance rate is at an all-time low, according to FBI data. In the mid-1960s, more than 90% of murders were solved, generally resulting in the arrests. By 1990, that percentage fell into the 60s. Then, by 2020, as homicides surged, the national clearance rate dropped to about 50% for the first time ever.
A "coin flip": Nearly half of U.S. murders go unsolved as cases rise
Murders are going unsolved at a historic pace, and police are far less likely to solve cases when the victim is Black or Hispanic, a CBS News investigation has found.
Behind the story: How CBS News analyzed homicide solve rates across U.S.
The investigative team at CBS News wanted to understand how police were addressing this nearly unprecedented spike in murders – and why many were going unsolved.
Baltimore task force trying to solve the crisis of unsolved murder
Officials from more than 20 agencies are working together in a nondescript warehouse, investigating Baltimore's most brazen drug syndicates.
Unsolved murders and the mothers of Jackson, Mississippi
Mothers being asked to investigate the murders of their sons has become a reality in Jackson.
Philly police say "crushing volume" of killings outruns their ability to close cases
CBS News analyzed decades of unsolved murders across the country, and found stark racial disparities in the clearance rates — the share of cases each year that are solved.
Former Dallas police chief hopes police and communities can bridge gaps
Renee Hall, former chief of the Dallas Police Department, is the daughter of a police officer killed in the line of duty.
A closer look at disparities in NYPD's homicide clearance rates
According to data analyzed by CBS News, the national homicide clearance rate has been improving for cases involving white victims, but falling for Black and Hispanic victims.
Detroit homicide clearance rates rise as national rates fall
According to the FBI and the Detroit Police Department, homicide clearance rates in the city have risen as the national average has fallen.
Unsolved murders on the rise, especially for Black, Hispanic victims
An analysis of FBI crime data by CBS 2 has found that LAPD's homicide clearance rate has ebbed over the years in a way that is concerning.
Five years after her brother's murder, one Chicago woman learns justice will never come
Chicago Police have low arrest rates, but higher rates for cleared or closed cases. We dig into what's behind those numbers.
Black and Hispanic murders are less likely to be solved. The reasons why are complicated.
New research by the CBS News Innovation Lab shows the likelihood of a murder being solved in the US is significantly lower when the victims are Black or Hispanic.
How Sacramento County is bucking the national trend of murder cases going unsolved
In a collaboration with CBS News, CBS Sacramento is examining why crime is often going without punishment in our country. The national homicide clearance rate is at an all-time low, according to FBI data. Barely half of the murder cases in the United States get solved.
Miami police working to increase murder clearance rate
In Miami-Dade, the clearance rate for homicides in 2020 was 43%
The problem behind Boston's unsolved murders
Unsolved murders are a growing concern nationwide.
Homicide clearance rates are dropping in Philadelphia as murder rates skyrocket
The murder rate in Philadelphia was 499 in 2020. That's a 40% increase from 2019.
Homicide clearance rates are declining across the U.S. Baltimore's is down to 42%.
A CBS News analysis of FBI homicide data shows Baltimore City's average clearance rate from 2015 to 2019 was just 38.7%, hitting a low of 29.7% in 2015, the tumultuous year when Freddie Gray was killed in police custody and arrests plummeted.
More murders going unsolved nationally, but Dallas-Fort Worth may be getting less credit than they deserve
Murder, according to the FBI, is the most likely crime to be solved in the US, but nationally the rate of success has been in decline for years.
Pittsburgh homicide clearance rates falling as national rate hits all-time low
In a collaboration with CBS News, KDKA Investigates examines crime often going without punishment in our country.
U.S. unsolved homicide rates soar, and Minneapolis is pacing worse than nat'l average
The day after Terrell Mayes, Jr. celebrated Christmas with his family, the 3-year-old and his siblings heard gunshots. A stray bullet struck Terrell as he ran up the stairs inside his north Minneapolis home. For more than a decade, WCCO has followed his grieving mother's push to find her son's killer.
Denver police's approach to solving homicides has caught national attention
Denver police has made many changes in the decades since the shocking murder of Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams, including building a $28 million state-of-the-art crime lab.
Oakland, SF see disheartening difference in homicide clearance rates
In a collaboration with CBS News, KPIX 5 is examining a crime often going without punishment in our country. Barely half of murder cases in the United States get solved.
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Virginia Giuffre's family criticizes DOJ in handling of Epstein files
The brother and sister-in-law of Virginia Giuffre, one of Jeffrey Epstein's most vocal accusers, are speaking out about the Justice Department's handling of the latest Epstein files release.
Alabama man faces execution despite not pulling trigger in 1991 killing
Charles "Sonny" Burton faces execution in Alabama for his role in a 1991 robbery in which a man was fatally shot, even though Burton did not fire the gun or witness the killing.
U.S. shoots down Iranian drone that approached aircraft carrier, military says
U.S. Central Command said the drone "aggressively" approached the USS Abraham Lincoln as it was crossing through the Arabian Sea.
Clintons will testify in Epstein probe after contempt threat, House panel says
Hillary Clinton will appear for a deposition on Feb. 26, while former President Bill Clinton will appear on Feb. 27, according to the House Oversight Committee.
House committee report accuses DHS of Good, Pretti killings cover-up
The Democratic members of a U.S. House committee have released the findings of a report examining last month's fatal shootings in Minneapolis by federal immigration officers.
MoneyWatch
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PepsiCo cuts prices of Cheetos, Doritos and other snacks
PepsiCo said the price cuts are aimed at making its products more affordable as consumers struggle with affordability.
Disney names parks chief Josh D'Amaro to succeed CEO Bob Iger
Josh D'Amaro, who oversees Disney theme parks and dozens of resort hotels worldwide, will become the next Disney CEO.
Consumer Reports' top 10 vehicles for 2026 — see which cars made the list
For the first time, the top 10 cars on Consumer Reports' annual list of best new vehicles also include electric or hybrid models.
Want to see Super Bowl 2026 commercials early? These ads are already live.
Many Super Bowl 60 ads are already online, along with teasers for commercials that will be unveiled during the NFL championship on Feb. 8.
United is upgrading its computers. Here's how that could impact travelers.
Starting early Wednesday, United customers won't be able to book flights and access other services as the airline upgrades its reservation system.
Politics
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Virginia Giuffre's family criticizes DOJ in handling of Epstein files
The brother and sister-in-law of Virginia Giuffre, one of Jeffrey Epstein's most vocal accusers, are speaking out about the Justice Department's handling of the latest Epstein files release.
U.S. shoots down Iranian drone that approached aircraft carrier, military says
U.S. Central Command said the drone "aggressively" approached the USS Abraham Lincoln as it was crossing through the Arabian Sea.
Clintons will testify in Epstein probe after contempt threat, House panel says
Hillary Clinton will appear for a deposition on Feb. 26, while former President Bill Clinton will appear on Feb. 27, according to the House Oversight Committee.
Texas GOP sounds alarm after Dem victory: "Cannot take anything for granted"
In a state Senate race in Fort Worth's Tarrant County, Democrat Taylor Rehmet defeated Republican Leigh Wambsganss by 14 points — a 30-point swing from President Trump's results in 2024.
House committee report accuses DHS of Good, Pretti killings cover-up
The Democratic members of a U.S. House committee have released the findings of a report examining last month's fatal shootings in Minneapolis by federal immigration officers.
HealthWatch
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5 ways to find affordable care without health insurance
Many Americans are expected to lose ACA or Medicaid coverage in the coming months and years, but doctors and researchers say there are still ways to find affordable care.
When health insurance costs more than the mortgage
As health care costs skyrocket and federal lawmakers pull back help on ACA insurance premiums, more middle-income families are facing tough choices on health care.
Extended Interview: Mel Robbins
In this web exclusive, author and podcaster Mel Robbins talks with Norah O'Donnell about "The Let Them Theory."
Book excerpt: "The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins
In her latest bestseller, the motivational speaker discusses how personal growth is only possible when you stop pouring energy into things you cannot control – which includes changing other people.
A cop thought he had a muscle cramp. He ended up fighting for his life.
Sgt. Chris Johnson was told that his heart condition had nearly been "instantly fatal." Rapid medical care and rigorous therapy helped him recover.
World
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Boat crew tosses 115 kilos of cocaine in Pacific while fleeing Colombian navy
The seizure was announced on the same day that Colombian President Gustavo Petro met with President Trump at the White House.
Russia hammers Ukraine on eve of peace talks
A day before Russian, Ukrainian and U.S. teams meet to talk peace, Putin's forces pounded Ukraine's energy infrastructure with dozens of drones and missiles.
U.S. shoots down Iranian drone that approached aircraft carrier, military says
U.S. Central Command said the drone "aggressively" approached the USS Abraham Lincoln as it was crossing through the Arabian Sea.
As Iran and the U.S. eye talks, a protester asks Trump to "keep his word"
As Iran declares willingness to negotiate with the U.S., a woman who joined the recent protests says Iranians want their leaders out, and they want the U.S. to help.
Teen from Alabama among 3 junior hockey players killed in Canada crash
Caden Fine, 17, from Birmingham, Alabama, and two of his teammates were killed when their vehicle collided with a semi-truck in Canada.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Activists on inspiring next generation
Activist Gloria Steinem, who has fought for the rights of every woman, is on a mission to inspire the next generation. She is collaborating with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Leymah Gbowee, who helped end the civil war in Liberia, on a new children's book. They talk to "CBS Mornings" about their experiences in their fight for equality and deciding to collaborate.
Westminster dog show winners on preparation
Three former winners of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and their handlers join "CBS Mornings" ahead of this year's Best in Show title being awarded Tuesday. They talk about how they prepared to compete and what retirement is like now.
Gabrielle Union talks new film "Goat"
Gabrielle Union talks about starring in the new animated movie "Goat," working with her husband and the real life issues portrayed in the movie.
Disney names parks chief Josh D'Amaro to succeed CEO Bob Iger
Josh D'Amaro, who oversees Disney theme parks and dozens of resort hotels worldwide, will become the next Disney CEO.
Goodell on Bad Bunny halftime performance
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell spoke Monday about this year's Super Bowl halftime performer, Bad Bunny, following the artist's message about ICE at the Grammy Awards on Sunday. Goodell said the halftime performance is "used to unite people" and added, "I think Bad Bunny understands that and I think he'll have a great performance."
Technology
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Technology
AI agents are using a social media platform
Moltbook, a social media platform for AI agents to interact, is growing. The Verge senior AI reporter Hayden Field joins CBS News with more details.
Inside the new social media platform for AI
Moltbook was launched last week by a software developer and mirrors the template of Reddit, but it's not for humans. Instead, it allows artificial intelligence agents to post written content and interact with other chatbots through comments, up-votes and down-votes. Tyler Cowen, professor of economics at George Mason University, joins CBS News to discuss.
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.
Alarming report on Amazon AI training
A new report from Bloomberg says Amazon found hundreds of thousands of cases of suspected child sex abuse material in its AI training data. Bloomberg tech reporter Riley Griffin joined CBS News to discuss.
How the gramophone changed music
While Thomas Edison's cylinders were the first to play recorded sound, they were impractical – leading Emile Berliner to come up with a better way to play music: The gramophone, invented in 1887, which played flat discs. Jane Pauley reports.
Science
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Scientists "quite surprised" to find one polar bear population thriving
After decades monitoring polar bears in Norway's far north, researchers say the animals have proven incredibly adaptable, but there are no guarantees for the future.
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
Cow develops technique to scratch herself
"CBS Saturday Morning" learns more about Veronika, the clever cow who figured out multiple ways to scratch herself with a broom. It was the first time a cow was seen using a tool.
Almanac: January 18
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Fossils found at Dinosaur National Monument, first excavation in 100 years
The Dinosaur National Monument, which is located on the border between Colorado and Utah, was last excavated in 1924.
Crime
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Boat crew tosses 115 kilos of cocaine in Pacific while fleeing Colombian navy
The seizure was announced on the same day that Colombian President Gustavo Petro met with President Trump at the White House.
Sheriff gives update on Nancy Guthrie
Officials in Arizona on Tuesday gave an update on the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie. Following the news conference, CBS News' Anna Schecter and Andres Gutierrez provided context.
Jill Biden's ex-husband charged with murder of his 2nd wife, police say
The man whom Jill Biden divorced for the eventual 46th President of the United States is now in jail on murder charges.
House committee report accuses DHS of Good, Pretti killings cover-up
The Democratic members of a U.S. House committee have released the findings of a report examining last month's fatal shootings in Minneapolis by federal immigration officers.
Jane Doe in R. Kelly case speaks out
Reshona Landfair, who testified as Jane Doe in R. Kelly's 2022 federal trial in Chicago, tells CBS News' Jerick Duncan that the release of the 2019 docuseries "Surviving R. Kelly" was a pivotal moment in her life. Duncan joins CBS News 24/7 Mornings with more.
Space
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Space
NASA delays Artemis II launch
NASA delayed the Artemis II moon rocket launch after a hydrogen leak was found during a wet dress rehearsal, the agency announced Tuesday. CBS News senior space consultant Bill Harwood has the latest.
NASA begins mission to map the boundaries of our heliosphere
A NASA mission is underway to map the heliosphere, which is a huge protective bubble around the solar system that was created by the sun.
NASA moon launch off until March due to issues during tests
NASA says it can't try until March at the earliest to send a crewed spacecraft on a flight around the moon and back, due to hydrogen leaks during testing of the Artemis II rocket.
Inside NASA's Artemis II mission
Artemis II echoes the Apollo-era missions that paved the way for the first moon landing — and sets the stage for what comes next.
After more than 50 years, NASA astronauts are going back to the moon
More than 50 years after NASA's last human mission to the moon, four astronauts, three Americans and a Canadian, are set for the 10-day Artemis II mission to the far side of the moon.
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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
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Latest CBS News Videos
Sheriff gives update on Nancy Guthrie
Officials in Arizona on Tuesday gave an update on the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie. Following the news conference, CBS News' Anna Schecter and Andres Gutierrez provided context.
Jill Biden's ex-husband charged with murder
William Stevenson, former first lady Jill Biden's ex-husband, was indicted on a murder charge connected to the death of his second wife late last year in Delaware, police said Tuesday. CBS News correspondent Shanelle Kaul has more.
House clears procedural vote on funding package
The House cleared a key procedural hurdle Tuesday for a funding package that would end the partial government shutdown. CBS News congressional correspondent Caitlin Huey-Burns has more.
NASA delays Artemis II launch
NASA delayed the Artemis II moon rocket launch after a hydrogen leak was found during a wet dress rehearsal, the agency announced Tuesday. CBS News senior space consultant Bill Harwood has the latest.
Inside The Banfield Trial: Guilty Verdict
Brendan Banfield has been found guilty of the murders of his wife, Christine Banfield, and Joseph Ryan, inside the Banfield's northern Virginia home in 2023. 48 Hours correspondent Anne-Marie Green speaks with 48 Hours producer Michelle Sigona about Banfield's decision to take the stand after his former lover and family au pair, Juliana Peres Magalhães, detailed an elaborate catfishing scheme meant to lure Ryan to the Banfield home and make it look like he stabbed Christine. Banfield was also found guilty of child endangerment and use of a firearm.