Best Police Series with Shocking Cases

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit stands out in this ranking for its relentless focus on complex and emotionally resonant crimes, tackling sensitive topics with a depth few police dramas achieve. The series has built a reputation for presenting cases that are not only impactful but also prompt reflection on justice and human resilience.

• Handles sensitive cases such as sexual crimes and child abuse

• Series filmed and produced in New York

The Shield stands out in this ranking for its raw and uncompromising portrayal of police corruption and gray morality within an elite unit. The series tackles complex and morally ambiguous cases that challenge the viewer's perceptions of justice and law.

• Inspired by a true case of LA police corruption

• Revolutionary cop show

Southland stands out in this ranking for its raw and realistic portrayal of police work, presenting cases that are emotionally devastating and morally complex. The series focuses on the human consequences of crimes and the difficult decisions officers must make, resulting in unforgettable impactful narratives.

• Showed a fresher look at the reality of being a police officer in the LAPD

• Explores intense and emotional experiences of LAPD officers and detectives

'Luther' stands out for its exceptionally dark and disturbing criminal cases, which test the moral boundaries of Detective John Luther. The psychological complexity of the murderers and the intensity with which the crimes unfold make it a fundamental piece within police series featuring impactful cases.

• Starring Idris Elba

• Genius detective investigating murders

NYPD Blue stands out in this ranking for its raw and realistic approach to criminal investigation, presenting complex cases that often explore the gray areas of law and morality. The series earned recognition for its intelligent writing and compelling performances that portrayed the harsh reality of police work and its personal repercussions.

• It won over the audience

• Explores the difficulties of the police brigade

Better Call Saul stands out in this ranking for its deep exploration of Jimmy McGill's transformation into Saul Goodman, presenting complex and morally ambiguous legal cases that profoundly impact the characters. The series weaves intricate criminal plots and ethical dilemmas that keep the viewer captivated with every plot twist.

• It is a tragedy

• It is a legal drama

• Depicts the transformation of Jimmy McGill

• Explores the trials and tribulations of Jimmy McGill

Cold Case earns a spot on this list for its unique focus on solving old crimes, presenting cases that, due to their unresolved nature, generate deep intrigue and lasting emotional impact on the viewer. The series masterfully maintains tension and mystery throughout its seasons, exploring the complexities of each cold case.

• Surprising plot twist

• Deep character development

• Constant suspenseful atmosphere

• Impactful resolution

Breaking Bad stands out in this ranking for its intricate plot that explores the transformation of an ordinary man into a drug lord, presenting complex and morally ambiguous criminal cases. The series delves into the depths of the drug trafficking world, showcasing the devastating consequences of the decisions made and the shocking plot twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

• Charismatic protagonist

• Powerful

• The ending is insane

True Detective stands out in this ranking for its atmospheric and psychological approach to investigating disturbing crimes. The series delves into the psyche of its detectives and the unsettling nature of the cases, creating an immersive and memorable experience.

• Follows pairs of tormented detectives

• Explores new cases each season

• New characters and locations each season

Dexter: New Blood continues the saga of a serial killer operating under a moral code, presenting cases that explore the depths of the criminal psyche and the consequences of their actions. The series stands out for its ability to intertwine police investigation with the protagonist's ethical dilemma, generating an emotional and psychological impact on the viewer.

• It offers the perfect, bloody conclusion to the story

• Well-planned and well-filmed

• Well-acted and well-paced

• It dared to challenge the viewer