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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Travel bans in effect, thousands of flights canceled as storm slams Northeast
A massive winter storm slamming the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic with blizzard conditions on Monday has prompted travel bans and forced thousands of flights to be canceled.
As more Americans embrace anxiety treatment, RFK Jr. derides medications
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has criticized the broadening use of anxiety medications, but doctors and researchers say the MAHA movement is misrepresenting drugs that have been proven to help.
Defense attorneys build mapping tool to track Justice Dept. "weaponization"
A defense lawyers group has posted a tracking tool to enable users to check on the status of some of the controversial prosecutions attempted by DOJ in the first year of Trump's second term.
NASA to start slow-moving process returning moon rocket to hangar this week
The space agency said Sunday it's targeting Tuesday for the slow, four-mile trek across Kennedy Space Center, weather permitting.
Foreign minister: Iran has the right to "nuclear energy, including enrichment"
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran has "every right to enjoy a peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment" as the U.S. pushes for a deal on its nuclear program.
MoneyWatch
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Trump imposes 10% tariffs on all countries after SCOTUS struck down earlier tariffs
President Trump signed an order that will impose 10% tariffs on imports from all countries, just hours after the Supreme Court struck down a different set of sweeping global tariffs.
Will Americans get refunds after Trump's tariffs were overturned by the Supreme Court?
While the Supreme Court struck down the Trump administration's emergency tariffs, experts said it could take years for businesses to get refunds.
Fried rice sold at Trader Joe's recalled over possible glass contamination
The recall involves 3.4 million pounds of frozen chicken fried rice products shipped to Trader Joe's locations nationwide and to retailers in Canada.
The latest GDP data isn't as bad as it looks. Here's what to know.
A simple reason explains why U.S. economic growth seemed to hit a wall in the final three months of the year.
Walmart and other big companies say tariffs are forcing them to hike prices
Large U.S. retailers say the Trump administration tariffs are forcing them to hike customer prices to offset higher costs.
Politics
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Defense attorneys build mapping tool to track Justice Dept. "weaponization"
A defense lawyers group has posted a tracking tool to enable users to check on the status of some of the controversial prosecutions attempted by DOJ in the first year of Trump's second term.
Foreign minister: Iran has the right to "nuclear energy, including enrichment"
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran has "every right to enjoy a peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment" as the U.S. pushes for a deal on its nuclear program.
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Feb. 22, 2026
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer join Margaret Brennan.
Greer says White House expects to "stand by" trade deals after SCOTUS ruling
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said "stand by" the trade deal agreements it has signed with its partners despite the Supreme Court's tariff decision.
Huckabee's remarks on Israel and Middle East were taken out of context, embassy says
U.S. ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, made his comments during an interview with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson that aired Friday.
HealthWatch
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As more Americans embrace anxiety treatment, RFK Jr. derides medications
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has criticized the broadening use of anxiety medications, but doctors and researchers say the MAHA movement is misrepresenting drugs that have been proven to help.
How safe is America from polio?
After decades of American children routinely receiving polio vaccines, the virus that had doomed many to paralysis was nearly eliminated in the United States. But vaccine avoidance today may allow the crippling disease to return.
How safe is America from polio?
After decades of American children routinely receiving polio vaccines, the virus that had doomed many to paralysis was nearly eliminated in the United States. But vaccine avoidance today may allow the crippling disease to return. CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jonathan LaPook talks with David Oshinsky, author of "Polio: An American Story," and with violin virtuoso Itzhak Perlman, who contracted polio as a child, about how parents opting out of vaccinations for their children could affect polio rates here.
Robots can help amid nursing home staffing crisis
A growing, aging population and an acute caregiver shortage are pushing adult care centers to think outside the box. Itay Hod introduces a new, high-tech helper.
Cop's shortness of breath was the only sign of rare lung disorder
Travis Corbitt's struggles to breathe led to his retirement and reliance on an oxygen tank.
World
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After leader killed, what does future hold for powerful Jalisco cartel?
Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as "El Mencho," had a $15 million U.S. bounty on his head.
"El Mencho," the cartel leader killed in Mexico, had a violent history
Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," was the leader of the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel prior to his death on Sunday.
Winter Olympics closing ceremony celebrates athletes and Italian art in Verona
The Milan Cortina Olympics ended Sunday with a closing ceremony inside the ancient Roman amphitheater, Verona Arena.
Foreign minister: Iran has the right to "nuclear energy, including enrichment"
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran has "every right to enjoy a peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment" as the U.S. pushes for a deal on its nuclear program.
Violence erupts after Mexican cartel leader "El Mencho" killed in federal operation
Mexico's Ministry of Defense security forces killed the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," in a military operation.
Entertainment
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Rose Byrne on playing a woman at the end of her rope in "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You"
The Australian-born actress earned an Academy Award nomination for her powerful performance as a mother stretched to the limits.
Extended interview: Rose Byrne
In this web exclusive, Rose Byrne, an Oscar nominee for best actress for her performance in Mary Bronstein's "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You," talks with Tracy Smith about her response to the character of Linda, a woman at the end of her rope. She also talks about her early years in Hollywood, including her friendship with fellow Australian Heath Ledger, and her experience playing comedy with "Bridesmaids."
Rose Byrne on "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You"
Australian-born actress Rose Byrne earned an Academy Award nomination for her powerful performance in the drama "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You," playing a mother stretched to the limits. She talks with correspondent Tracy Smith about playing a woman losing all sense of control. Byrne also discusses her early years in Hollywood and the help she received from fellow Aussie Heath Ledger; and how she branched off from working in dramas like the TV series "Damages," to comedies like "Bridesmaids."
Passage: In memoriam
"Sunday Morning" remembers some of the notable figures who left us this week, including Academy Award-winning actor Robert Duvall.
The legacy of the Studio Museum in Harlem
In 1968, a group of artists, activists, and community members founded the Studio Museum in Harlem. It was a space not just for displaying works celebrating the contributions of African-American artists, but also to foster up-and-coming artists through a residency program. Now, following a seven-year, $160 million renovation, the Studio Museum has reopened. Nancy Giles pays a visit.
Technology
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Technology
Robots can help amid nursing home staffing crisis
A growing, aging population and an acute caregiver shortage are pushing adult care centers to think outside the box. Itay Hod introduces a new, high-tech helper.
Social psychologist on social media addiction
One of the catalysts for the social media addiction debate was a 2024 book called "The Anxious Generation" by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt. His new book tries to help parents and kids break free from screens. Haidt joins CBS News to discuss Mark Zuckerberg, the ongoing social media addiction trial and artificial intelligence.
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.
Judge scolds Mark Zuckerberg's team for wearing Meta glasses to trial
A Los Angeles judge ordered Meta officials to remove their AI glasses at a trial over the impact of social media on users.
Mark Zuckerberg grilled in court
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg took the stand at the social media addiction trial examining whether children and teens were given access to an addictive and harmful product. CBS News' Carter Evans reports.
Science
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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.
These United States: George Washington and climate change
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in an unanticipated crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River. Environmental correspondent David Schechter looks at how Washington's watershed military maneuver dramatized both a changing America, and a changing climate.
Impact of climate change on Winter Olympics
The Winter Olympics in Milan need artificial snow due to climate change and warmer weather. Athletes say man-made snow makes terrain more difficult and unpredictable. Rob Marciano reports on its impact.
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.
Crime
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After leader killed, what does future hold for powerful Jalisco cartel?
Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as "El Mencho," had a $15 million U.S. bounty on his head.
"El Mencho," the cartel leader killed in Mexico, had a violent history
Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," was the leader of the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel prior to his death on Sunday.
Cellphone app, security video critical in helping solve teen's murder
In April 2024, college student Sade Robinson, 19, went on a first date and never came home. Her car was found set on fire 3 miles from her apartment. Using data from an app on her phone, law enforcement began to piece together where she went — and who she was with.
Ex-Army recruiter blamed wife for his demotion. Did he kill her for revenge?
Cati Blauvelt was discovered in an abandoned South Carolina farmhouse in 2016 — a broken knife blade inside her body. Almost immediately, her friends had one suspect in mind: John Blauvelt, her estranged husband, a once-respected Army recruiter.
Former "American Idol" contestant charged in wife's murder in Ohio
Caleb Flynn, 37, appeared in season 12 of "American Idol." He was arrested by Tipp City police last week and charged with murder, assault and tampering with evidence.
Space
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NASA to start slow-moving process returning moon rocket to hangar this week
The space agency said Sunday it's targeting Tuesday for the slow, four-mile trek across Kennedy Space Center, weather permitting.
NASA's moon rocket hit by new problem, flight pushed to April
The Artemis II mission aims to send four astronauts — Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen — on a flight around the far side of the moon and back.
Report criticizes NASA Boeing Starliner trip
An internal investigation is blasting NASA's handling of the first piloted flight of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft in 2024. The flight left two astronauts stuck on the International Space Station for nearly a year. The investigation found the flight was plagued by potentially life-threatening technical and management failures.
Cosmologist on UFO files
President Trump has ordered the release of all government documents related to aliens, UFOs and extraterrestrial life. It comes after former President Barack Obama addressed the topic earlier this week and said aliens are real, a statement which he later modified. CBS News contributor Janna Levin has more details.
NASA targets March 6 for Artemis II moonshot
A successful fueling test prompts NASA to press ahead toward a March 6 moonshot.
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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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Winter storm cancels thousands of flights
More than 10,000 flights have been canceled since Sunday due to the winter storm hitting the East Coast with heavy snow and powerful winds. Kris Van Cleave reports on when service is expected to restart.
U.S. men's hockey wins gold in overtime
The 2026 Winter Olympics wrapped up Sunday in Italy. But before the closing ceremony, Team USA captured a thrilling victory, beating Canada 2-1 in overtime to win gold for the first time since 1980. The U.S. finished with 33 medals total, the most since 2010, including 12 gold medals.
Milano Cortina Winter Olympics come to an end
The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics came to a spectacular close Sunday night in a historic Roman amphitheater in Verona, Italy. Seth Doane in Cortina covered all 19 days of competition and reflects on its impact.
Team USA wins men's hockey gold in overtime
The U.S. men's hockey team beat Canada on Sunday to win its first Olympic gold medal since the "Miracle on Ice" in 1980. Kelly O'Grady reports.
Russia launches another attack on Ukraine
Russia fired scores of missiles and drones at targets across Ukraine Sunday. Holly Williams is in Kyiv with more.