A gripping exposé from the front lines of law enforcement—where true crime obsession meets real-world consequences.
David Lyons, retired homicide detective, law enforcement educator, and co-host of the popular Murder Police Podcast and Murder Police Podcast YouTube Channel, pulls back the curtain on the true crime phenomenon and its growing influence on real-life investigations.
In True Crime & Consequences, Lyons delivers a timely and riveting look at how podcasts, social media, and armchair sleuths are reshaping modern justice—for better and for worse.
Blending behind-the-scenes storytelling with insider insight, Lyons explores:
- The true crime boom and what the public doesn’t see
- Real-life cases derailed by well-meaning but harmful interference
- High-pressure lessons from nearly three decades behind the badge
- Why centering victims and survivors must be the industry’s future
- How everyday citizens can help—ethically, legally, and compassionately
- This is not just another true crime book. It’s a call to action
Whether you’re a diehard podcast fan, a justice seeker, or a curious citizen, True Crime & Consequences challenges what you think you know—and invites you into a deeper conversation about truth, impact, and responsibility.
Reader Reviews
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I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I felt like I was sitting in a room with the author discussing this whole topic and it was nothing like sitting in a large auditorium listening to a lecture.
This book offers a thoughtful and well-balanced look at the intersection of true crime enthusiasts and professional homicide detectives. I appreciated how it emphasized that all participants, whether formal investigators or independent researchers, share a responsibility not to harm the families of victims. The book lays out the investigative and prosecutorial process in a clear, accessible way, touching on essential topics like evidence handling, chain of custody, and legal limitations on what law enforcement can publicly share.
One of the most valuable aspects of the book is its practical advice: true crime “detectives” who want to be taken seriously by law enforcement must bring meaningful, actionable information; not just speculation or curiosity questions. At the same time, it encourages police to recognize the potential value that outsiders may offer. He points out the time that true crime folks have a lot of time to dig and chase down details.
I found it to be a respectful, well-informed guide that strikes a firm but fair tone. It’s an excellent read for anyone involved in or fascinated by true crime, with a strong focus on protecting the integrity of cases and honoring victims and their loved ones.
Laura S – Amazon Review
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David Lyons, former homicide detective and co-creator of The Murder Police Podcast, takes readers behind the Crime Scene tape to better understand how True Crimers can lend an invaluable hand in solving homicides and missing person cases without stepping on the toes of police detectives, re-victimizing survivors or screwing up a real life mystery. After a career working homicide investigations for the Lexington Kentucky Police Department, David Lyons now hosts one of the best true crime podcast: the Murder Police Podcast. He takes True Crimers on a crash course of how police really work, and how strong suspicions isn’t the same as hard evidence. There’s what you know and what you can prove. David’s book is a must read for True Crimers seeking to help law enforcement solve murders and find missing persons.
BassetBill – Amazon Review
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“True Crime & Consequences” by David Lyons. Retirement book #54. Once again, I’ve been lucky enough to be chosen as an advance reader for a local book. I’ve listened to the author’s podcast, “The Murder Police Podcast” for over a year. It’s hosted by a retired Lexington murder investigator and his wife, Wendy, and tells stories (both solved and unsolved) from a victim’s perspective. The book is aimed at “true crimers” and police investigators and while giving background from an investigators’ perspective, details how someone interested in getting involved in an investigation can “help” or just as importantly, “not help.” I’ve read several true-crime books and watched many shows over the years but this book gives a unique perspective of that genre. If you know me personally, you know I had a fascination with one particular true crime and would have loved to “help” solve it. After reading the book, I’m damn glad I never got that chance. If I had a complaint, it would be that the book could be longer for my taste. Their podcast can be found anywhere you find podcasts and is also available on YouTube. The book is due to be released on June 17th. I recommend both the book and podcast.
Chuck Williamson – Amazon Review
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As a follower of David and Wendy’s “The Murder Police” podcast and an Admin Assistant an at a local police station for almost 10 years I was so excited to learn David has written this book. I have always had an interest in the investigation side and while I may not be one that is interested in getting involved in trying to help solve a case I found David’s perspective and insight very informative for those who might be. Whether you are an individual or belong to a true crime social media group there is so much in this book and how we can help or hinder an investigation. David brings honesty, wisdom, a tinge of humor and an enormous amount of caring and respect for the victims and their families in this book, while speaking to what we can or cannot do to help in an investigation. I thought the book was well written and an easy read.
Lori – Amazon Review
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As someone who worked with the author during his tenure as an actual homicide detective (and yes, he is for real), I know how much passion and energy David puts into caring for victims and trying to find closure for survivors of real life trauma. It is so wonderful to see him continuing to give back even after retirement by bringing law enforcement and “true crimers” together.
Realizing that we are all part of a community which has to uphold the values and principles of our legal system above all else while being creative in the way we contribute to survivors finding closure is so valuable in today’s world. His book was informative at a level that experienced and basic contributors alike can admire and appreciate while being grounded in who David is in the “real world” IFKYK.
David Boggs – Amazon Review
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This book is a must read for anyone that is not a seasoned criminologist. Whether you want to assist in solving crimes, are intrigued by crime stories or follow crimes until the case is closed, this book is for you. The educational aspect is a necessity for anyone drawn to crime whether they are listening to podcasts, watching crime shows or trying to help in a case.
Being a survivor in a crime, sensitivity for survivors should be at the top of the list. One that has not lived through such a traumatic and horrific event, cannot fathom the incredible grief a survivor carries. When you are truly concerned about the victim and their families, you will take to heart what David Lyons has written so your actions don’t jeopardize even one case.
Start reading, be open minded and you will gain an education, as I did.
Renee T. True – Amazon Review
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This is an illuminating read, which builds a bridge of understanding between law enforcement investigators and members of the public who wish to assist in solving crimes. Through humor and experience, the author David Lyons illuminates common areas of misunderstanding, and explains why some boundaries exist (ie: chain of custody of evidence, confidentiality etc.) There is a delicate balance when police and the public/media are working together, and this book navigates these waters adeptly. By the end of the book readers will have a greater understanding the criminal justice system, be able to recognize motives and appreciating the value that both law enforcement investigators and “true crimers” bring to the table. Additionally, this author has dedicated his life to solving crimes and caring about victims and that in itself brings credibility to the table.
Carol Frederick – Amazon Review