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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Winning numbers for Monday's $905 million Powerball jackpot drawn
With no winner since May, the Powerball grand prize ballooned to the eighth largest in history.
Court clears way for social media addiction suits against tech giants
Appeals court ruling could open the door to a flood of litigation against Google, Meta and other social media players.
Why Taylor Farms faces scrutiny over salmonella and cyclospora outbreaks
Despite a rash of foodborne illnesses in recent months, one expert said the nation's food supply is "remarkably safe." Here's what to know.
Contiguous U.S. breaks its record for hottest month ever, NOAA says
Temperatures last month averaged 76.9 degrees Fahrenheit as above-average warmth blanketed the U.S.
Blanche sworn in as attorney general, formally taking reins at DOJ
Todd Blanche was sworn in as attorney general after the Senate narrowly voted to confirm the president's former defense lawyer to helm the Justice Department over the weekend.
MoneyWatch
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Court clears way for social media addiction suits against tech giants
Appeals court ruling could open the door to a flood of litigation against Google, Meta and other social media players.
Why Taylor Farms faces scrutiny over salmonella and cyclospora outbreaks
Despite a rash of foodborne illnesses in recent months, one expert said the nation's food supply is "remarkably safe." Here's what to know.
5 takeaways from Zuckerberg's essay on his vision for superintelligence
In a 6,500-word post, the Meta CEO argues that superintelligence should be shared "with as many people and businesses as possible."
Mark Zuckerberg's yacht missed boat's call for help, spokesperson says
The issue arose when a skiff ran out of fuel off the coast of Alaska and called for assistance from nearby ships.
Taylor Farms recalls jalapeño items at Walmart, Target over salmonella risk
The recalled products with jalapeño were distributed at national retailers, including Walmart, Target and Trader Joe's, in 26 states.
Politics
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In texts, Fauci discussed potential risks, benefits of COVID vaccine for pregnant women
Two Senate Republicans released a set of 2021 texts that show Dr. Anthony Fauci discussing how to "weigh the potential risks against the benefits" of pregnant women taking COVID-19 vaccines.
Judge dismisses charges against billionaire Adani, but sharply criticizes DOJ
A federal judge dismissed fraud charges against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani at the DOJ's request. But in an unusual twist, he refused to dismiss charges against some co-defendants and criticized the DOJ's handling of the case.
Blanche sworn in as attorney general, formally taking reins at DOJ
Todd Blanche was sworn in as attorney general after the Senate narrowly voted to confirm the president's former defense lawyer to helm the Justice Department over the weekend.
First on CBS
Trump signs order on vaccination recommendations
President Trump signed an executive order on childhood vaccine schedules Monday.
AOC shares her egg-freezing journey. Here's what to know about the process.
"This is a choice that I am making to feel more in control of my life," said 36-year-old Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
HealthWatch
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In texts, Fauci discussed potential risks, benefits of COVID vaccine for pregnant women
Two Senate Republicans released a set of 2021 texts that show Dr. Anthony Fauci discussing how to "weigh the potential risks against the benefits" of pregnant women taking COVID-19 vaccines.
Taylor Farms recalls jalapeño products
Taylor Farms, the company linked to this summer's lettuce-related parasite outbreak, is now recalling jalapeño pepper products after new concerns about salmonella. Tom Hanson reports.
Trump orders new vaccine recommendations
As kids head back to school amid the worst measles outbreak in decades, President Trump signed an executive order slashing the number of vaccines recommended for children. Ed O'Keefe has the details and Dr. Jon LaPook discusses what parents should know.
Why Taylor Farms faces scrutiny over salmonella and cyclospora outbreaks
Despite a rash of foodborne illnesses in recent months, one expert said the nation's food supply is "remarkably safe." Here's what to know.
First on CBS
Trump signs order on vaccination recommendations
President Trump signed an executive order on childhood vaccine schedules Monday.
World
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Italian businessman is mastermind behind journalist bomb attack, police say
Valter Lavitola, a former journalist and import-export businessman who owns a restaurant in Rome, was close to former Italian premier Silvio Berlusconi.
7.4 earthquake strikes western Colombia, killing over 100 people
The 7.4 magnitude earthquake's epicenter was San José del Palmar, about 250 miles west of Colombia's capital, Bogota, officials said.
Wildfires rage, force evacuations in western U.S., Canada amid drought
More than 40 large wildfires are burning in the West, fueled by severe drought, as over 100 blazes scorch parts of western Canada.
Undersea power cable diverted after "Harry Potter" fans complain
The CEO of Etchea Energy described being inundated with calls after inadvertently planning an underground cable beneath a memorial to the fictional "Harry Potter" character.
London police seize record $10 million in supercars in one weekend
One of the vehicles impounded was a Ferrari Monza SP2, which can sell for as much as $5 million at auction.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Jury selection begins in Tupac Shakur trial
Nearly 30 years after the killing of rapper Tupac Shakur, jury selection is underway for the man charged in connection with the murder, Duane "Keffe D" Davis. Celebrity attorney Chris Melcher joins CBS News to discuss.
Riley Green talks upcoming album
Country music star Riley Green joins "CBS Mornings" to talk about his upcoming album, "That's Just Me," which is set for release in mid-September.
Meet Paw Patrol look-alike contest winners
The winners of a Paw Patrol look-alike contest join "CBS Mornings" ahead of the "Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie" which premieres Aug. 14.
Taylor Swift songs in White House socials
Some Taylor Swift songs were removed from several White House social media videos. CBS News contributor Caroline Polisi has more.
Tales from Gay Talese
A legend among writers and reporters, and a leading practitioner of the "New Journalism," Gay Talese talks of a career writing about the famous and not-so-famous, from Frank Sinatra, to aging sports figures, mobsters and nudists.
Technology
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Technology
Meta debuts new AI model; Sanders' regulatory push
Sen. Bernie Sanders on Monday called for more regulation of artificial intelligence, saying companies are losing control of the technology. On the same day, Meta released a new AI tool. Axios tech and policy reporter Maria Curi joins to discuss.
Court clears way for social media addiction suits against tech giants
Appeals court ruling could open the door to a flood of litigation against Google, Meta and other social media players.
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.
5 takeaways from Zuckerberg's essay on his vision for superintelligence
In a 6,500-word post, the Meta CEO argues that superintelligence should be shared "with as many people and businesses as possible."
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Deals, we show you items that will help improve your everyday lifestyle. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.
Science
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Science
Protecting the Venus fly trap
The carnivorous Venus fly trap is native to the Carolinas, but its population is dwindling due to loss of habitat. Correspondent Seth Doane talks with botanist Julie Moore, who has spent much of her life helping to save these remarkable plants; and with Damon Waitt, director of the North Carolina Botanical Garden, who discusses the unusual traits of a species that Charles Darwin called the most interesting plant in the world. (Originally broadcast April 26, 2026.)
Genetically altered beagles offer hope for dog lovers with allergies
Matt Walker, a geneticist and the CEO of Kindred Companion Sciences, joins "CBS Mornings" with his gene-altered beagle, Bailey, to discuss creating future options for people with severe pet allergies.
Most detailed images taken of sun's surface revealed
Researchers were able to peek at the sun's scorching surface with the help of the National Science Foundation's Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii.
Bezos, DiCaprio set up massive wildlife fund
Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos have announced a $200 million fund set to protect species on the brink of extinction. Carter Evans has the story.
Dramatic photos show lava spewing from Fuego volcano in Guatemala
Guatemalan officials on Monday began evacuating two villages near the Fuego volcano due to the ongoing eruption.
Crime
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Crime
Lindsay Clancy's psychiatrist back on stand
Lindsay Clancy's psychiatrist, Dr. Jennifer Tufts, is back on the stand Monday as the Massachusetts murder trial enters its third week. CBS News' Katrina Kaufman has more.
Man who allegedly arranged Tupac Shakur's 1996 killing is on trial in Las Vegas
The man who prosecutors say orchestrated the 1996 killing of rap icon Tupac Shakur, Duane "Keffe D" Davis, is on trial almost 30 years after the drive-by shooting in Las Vegas.
2 killed in New York Harbor boat capsize
The captain of a boat that overturned in New York Harbor was charged with reckless endangerment. Twelve people were saved, but a mother and her 5-month-old daughter died. Michael George reports.
Family of murdered photographer wonders if his killer acted alone
Joe Shymanski, a, well-known Washington D.C. photographer, was murdered and dismembered in 2023. His ex-wife's former boyfriend, Brandon Holbrook, was convicted in the case. Shymanski's family still wonders if anyone else was involved.
Survivor's testimony key in helping convict ex-boyfriend of murder
C.C. Opanowski says it's still difficult to process the fact that a person she once loved was convicted of murder. She hopes that others can learn from her story.
Space
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Most detailed images taken of sun's surface revealed
Researchers were able to peek at the sun's scorching surface with the help of the National Science Foundation's Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii.
SpaceX rocket booster slams into moon, creating crater that could be 16 feet deep
The impact wasn't visible to the naked eye, but photos are expected to come from a lunar satellite at a later time.
Russian Soyuz brings three home after 8 months at space station
The Soyuz MS-28 landing in Kazakhstan brought a 241-day stay in space to a successful conclusion.
SpaceX's Super Heavy-Starship blasts off on 13th test flight
An upgraded version of the world's most powerful rocket is key to landing NASA astronauts on the moon in the agency's Artemis program.
Meteorite that hit home contains "alien world chemistry," experts say
When scientists examined the preserved fragments of a meteorite that crashed in 2024, they found brine-like fluids and key molecules.
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Investigating the death of designer Sylvie Cachay
Sylvie Cachay was found dead in an overflowing bathtub at the exclusive Soho House in New York City on Dec. 9, 2010. A water leak at the hotel gave away a timeline that may have revealed her killer.
Photos show celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
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Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
D4vd Charged with Murder
Following the discovery of Celeste Rivas Hernandez's remains in a vehicle registered to D4vd last fall, what were the key developments that led to charges this week? On this episode of "Case by Case," we examine all of the new details coming out of the case against singer-songwriter David Anthony Burke, who professionally goes by D4vd. "48 Hours" correspondent Natalie Morales and CBS News chief correspondent Matt Gutman break down what we know so far about Celeste's death and the alleged abusive relationship she had with the singer.
The Au Pair Affair: Banfield Sentenced to Life
On Friday, June 5, Brendan Banfield was sentenced to life in prison without parole for orchestrating an elaborate plot to murder his wife, Christine Banfield, while carrying on an affair with the family's au pair, Juliana Peres Magalhães. The scheme involved luring an unsuspecting man, Joseph Ryan, to the Banfield home and attempting to frame him for the crime. "48 Hours" correspondent Anne-Marie Green and "48 Hours" producer Michelle Sigona share the most passionate moments from victim impact statements. You'll also hear from Brendan Banfield in court as he maintained his innocence.
Disturbing New Allegations Against D4vd
On April 29, prosecutors released a brief outlining their case against singer-songwriter D4vd, who has been charged in the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. On this episode of "Case By Case," we examine the state's timeline of events, including the allegation that D4vd stabbed Celeste and went to great lengths to cover up the crime. Plus, an update on Nick Reiner who appeared in the same court just hours before D4vd. "48 Hours" correspondent Erin Moriarty and Los Angeles Times crime writer Richard Winton dig into the new details on both stories.
Inside D4vd's Preliminary Hearing in Murder Case
A preliminary hearing offers the clearest look yet at the case against singer-songwriter D4vd, who is charged with the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. "48 Hours" correspondent Anne-Marie Green is joined by Los Angeles Times investigative crime writer Richard Winton to unpack the latest courtroom developments, the prosecution's strategy, the defense's response, and the evidence that could determine whether the case advances to trial.
Doctors on Trump's vaccine executive order
President Trump signed an executive order on Monday that lowers the recommended number of vaccines for children and encourages splitting up certain vaccines into separate doctor visits. Doctors spoke with CBS News about the order and suggested that parents speak with their children's pediatricians about what would be best for their kids.