The Business
A Distraught Mother, a Missing Son, and a Bizarre Cult
A call from a desperate mother leads investigators to a secretive cult ... and a brainwashed missing son. Read More
Chasing the Ghost: Elusive Truths in a Murder Investigation
1st Place: Private investigator and crime novelist John Nardizzi tells a twisted tale of murder and conflicting stories, diligent investigation and justice unserved. Read More
Panty Raid
2nd Place: Mike Spencer's tale takes us deep undercover—into a defense case, his backstory as a reporter, and his personal philosophy about power, fairness and the justice we all deserve. Read More
Why Defense Investigation Matters
Third Place (Tie): By exploring past cases and interviewing veteran defenders, Sean Duffy shows us how investigating for the defense can make a giant difference in people's lives.
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On Persistence: A Defense Investigator’s Manifesto
Third Place (Tie): Veteran reporter Oliver Mackson turns his talents to investigations with higher stakes, and reflects on the power of dogged pursuit. Read More
How Criminal Defense Investigations Work
Honorable Mention: T.W. Person's step-by-step examination of how a typical criminal case works, what can go wrong, and the vital role a defense investigator can play. Read More
An Ex-Cop Turns Defense Investigator
Honorable Mention: Michael McKenna, a former police officer, reflects on his change of heart about the ethics of working for the defense.
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Leave No Stone Unturned: A Private Investigator’s Philosophy
A detail missed in a long-ago investigation haunts a former police officer—and informs his try-everything approach to private investigations. Read More