Best Police Shows On Netflix: Top Crime Series To Watch

Hey there, crime show enthusiasts! Looking for something thrilling to binge-watch? Netflix has got you covered with an awesome selection of police shows. Whether you're into gritty procedurals, intense investigations, or character-driven dramas, there's a series on this list that'll keep you glued to your screen. Let's dive into some of the best police shows Netflix has to offer!

1. Line of Duty

Line of Duty is a masterpiece of British television, and if you haven't seen it yet, now is the time, guys! This series is a thrilling deep dive into the world of police anti-corruption. Set in the UK, the show follows AC-12, a controversial police anti-corruption unit, as they investigate officers suspected of misconduct. The show is known for its complex plots, unexpected twists, and intense interrogation scenes that will leave you on the edge of your seat. What makes Line of Duty so compelling is its unflinching look at morality and ethics within law enforcement. Each season introduces new characters and cases, ensuring that the series remains fresh and engaging. The writing is top-notch, and the performances are incredible, especially from the core cast members who bring depth and nuance to their roles. The show's ability to constantly subvert expectations and keep viewers guessing is a testament to its brilliance. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or just looking for a gripping series to get into, Line of Duty is a must-watch. Trust me; you won't be disappointed. The series excels in building suspense, and the intricate plots are revealed layer by layer, keeping you guessing until the very end. Line of Duty also benefits from strong character development, as the main characters are complex and flawed, making their actions and decisions all the more believable. The series tackles tough issues such as institutional corruption and the pressures faced by police officers, adding a layer of depth and realism to the storytelling. With its compelling narratives and stellar performances, Line of Duty has earned its place as one of the best police shows on television.

2. Mindhunter

If you're fascinated by the psychology of criminals, Mindhunter is your jam. This Netflix original series is set in the late 1970s and follows two FBI agents, Holden Ford and Bill Tench, as they interview serial killers to understand their motives and behaviors. What sets Mindhunter apart is its focus on the early days of criminal profiling and the development of modern investigative techniques. The show is based on the true-crime book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit and features meticulously recreated historical settings and real-life cases. The conversations between the agents and the killers are chilling and thought-provoking, offering a glimpse into the darkest corners of the human mind. The acting is superb, with Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany delivering nuanced performances as the lead agents. David Fincher, who directed several episodes, brings his signature style to the series, creating a visually stunning and atmospheric show. Mindhunter is more than just a crime drama; it's a study of human behavior and the origins of evil. The series explores the psychological toll that working on such disturbing cases takes on the agents, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the narrative. The show's attention to detail and commitment to authenticity make it a truly immersive experience. The exploration of the agents' personal lives and struggles also adds a human element to the series, making it more relatable and engaging. Despite being canceled after two seasons, Mindhunter remains a standout series on Netflix, offering a unique and insightful look into the world of criminal psychology. Its impact on the crime drama genre is undeniable, and it continues to be praised for its intelligence, sophistication, and gripping storytelling.

3. Bosch

For those who prefer a classic, no-nonsense police procedural, Bosch is a solid choice. Based on the novels by Michael Connelly, the series follows Harry Bosch, a homicide detective in the Los Angeles Police Department. Bosch is known for its realistic portrayal of police work, complex plots, and well-developed characters. Titus Welliver delivers a compelling performance as the titular character, bringing a sense of world-weariness and dedication to the role. The show is set in the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles, and the city itself becomes a character in the series. Bosch tackles tough issues such as police corruption, political intrigue, and the impact of crime on victims and their families. The series is praised for its attention to detail and its commitment to staying true to the source material. The supporting cast is also excellent, with each character adding depth and dimension to the story. Bosch is a show that rewards viewers who appreciate a slow-burn narrative and complex character development. The cases are intricate and require careful attention to detail, making for a satisfying viewing experience. The series also explores Bosch's personal life and struggles, adding a human element to the story. With its compelling plots and strong performances, Bosch has become a fan favorite and a standout series in the crime drama genre. The show's ability to balance procedural elements with character-driven storytelling makes it a truly engaging and rewarding watch.

4. The Sinner

The Sinner is an anthology series, meaning each season features a new case and a new set of characters. What connects each season is the focus on why ordinary people commit shocking acts of violence. The series is known for its dark and suspenseful tone, its complex characters, and its unexpected twists. Each season begins with a seemingly inexplicable crime, and the detective, Harry Ambrose, played by Bill Pullman, must unravel the mystery behind it. The Sinner delves into the psychological depths of its characters, exploring trauma, repressed memories, and the dark secrets that can drive people to commit terrible acts. The series is praised for its strong performances, its atmospheric visuals, and its ability to keep viewers guessing until the very end. Each season is a self-contained story, making it easy to jump in at any point. However, viewers who appreciate a deep dive into character psychology and a slow-burn narrative will find The Sinner particularly rewarding. The series tackles tough issues such as mental illness, abuse, and the impact of trauma on individuals and communities. With its compelling plots and strong performances, The Sinner has become a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its intelligence, sophistication, and gripping storytelling. The show's ability to create a sense of unease and suspense is a testament to its brilliance, making it a must-watch for fans of dark and psychological crime dramas.

5. Sherlock

Okay, so Sherlock isn't strictly a police show, but it does feature a brilliant detective solving crimes in collaboration with the police, so I'm adding it in, guys! This BBC series stars Benedict Cumberbatch as the iconic Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. Sherlock is a modern adaptation of the classic Arthur Conan Doyle stories, set in present-day London. The show is known for its clever writing, its stylish visuals, and its outstanding performances. Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock is both brilliant and eccentric, while Freeman brings a sense of groundedness and humanity to the role of Watson. Sherlock is a show that rewards viewers who appreciate clever mysteries and complex characters. The cases are intricate and require careful attention to detail, making for a satisfying viewing experience. The series also explores the relationship between Sherlock and Watson, adding a layer of depth and emotion to the story. Sherlock has become a global phenomenon, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. The show's ability to blend classic storytelling with modern sensibilities makes it a timeless and engaging watch. With its compelling plots and outstanding performances, Sherlock has cemented its place as one of the best crime dramas of all time. Each episode is like a mini-movie, with stunning visuals, clever writing, and unforgettable performances.

6. Luther

Luther is a British psychological crime drama starring Idris Elba as DCI John Luther. The series is known for its dark and gritty tone, its complex characters, and its intense storylines. Luther is a brilliant but troubled detective who often crosses the line to catch his suspects. The show explores the psychological toll that working on such disturbing cases takes on Luther, and the personal sacrifices he makes in the name of justice. Luther is praised for Elba's powerful performance, its suspenseful plots, and its unflinching look at the dark side of human nature. The series is set in London and makes great use of the city's atmosphere to create a sense of unease and dread. Luther is not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate a dark and intense crime drama, it is a must-watch. The show's ability to create a sense of tension and suspense is unparalleled, and the characters are so well-developed that you can't help but become invested in their fates. Luther also explores the moral ambiguities of law enforcement, questioning whether the ends justify the means. With its compelling narratives and stellar performances, Luther has earned its place as one of the best police shows on television.

7. Happy Valley

Happy Valley is a British crime drama set in West Yorkshire, England. The series follows Catherine Cawood, a police sergeant struggling to cope with the suicide of her daughter and the release from prison of the man she blames for it. Happy Valley is known for its realistic portrayal of police work, its complex characters, and its unflinching look at the social problems facing rural communities. Sarah Lancashire delivers a powerhouse performance as Catherine, bringing a sense of strength, vulnerability, and determination to the role. The show is praised for its gritty realism, its compelling plots, and its strong female characters. Happy Valley tackles tough issues such as drug addiction, domestic violence, and the impact of crime on victims and their families. The series is not always easy to watch, but it is always gripping and thought-provoking. Happy Valley is a show that rewards viewers who appreciate a slow-burn narrative and complex character development. The cases are intricate and require careful attention to detail, making for a satisfying viewing experience. With its compelling plots and strong performances, Happy Valley has become a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its intelligence, sophistication, and gripping storytelling.

So there you have it, guys! A list of some of the best police shows currently streaming on Netflix. Grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for some serious binge-watching. Happy viewing!