I've finally found a true crime documentary that doesn't make murder investigations feel like entertainment — and you can stream it for free on BBC iPlayer

In today's world, true crime documentaries have become a popular form of entertainment, often treating the trauma of victims as mere spectacle. Shows like "Trust Me: The False Prophet," "Devil in the Family," and "Unknown Number" have been quickly turned into memes and internet culture after their release, failing to provide any real education or justice to those affected. Only "Making a Murderer" has managed to change an ongoing unjust case.

Contrary to this trend, BBC iPlayer has produced a true crime documentary that focuses on the education aspect and presents the investigation process in an authentic manner. Season 3 of "Murder 24/7" showcases this approach, featuring different UK detectives and police forces working through various murder cases in real-time.

Unlike typical true crime documentaries, "Murder 24/7" does not include interviews with the people involved, narration, or additional commentary. Instead, it relies on bodycam footage, interview archives, and camera crews on-site during the unfolding events. The production takes viewers through every step of the investigation, from door-to-door enquiries and crime scene sweeps to evidence processing and sentencing.

The show's British undertone presents murder suspects being handled politely as if they were at a tea party, offering a stark contrast to the high-gloss productions often seen in US programming. Viewers are taken through door-to-door enquiries, crime scene sweeps, information processing, and sentencing, experiencing the painstaking, time-consuming, and frustrating reality of criminal investigations.

One case highlighted in the season 3 finale involves Lee Sargent, who was convicted to 18 years and 10 months in prison for attempted murder after bludgeoning his partner with a meat cleaver in their bedroom. As he is taken away by an ambulance, neighbors can be heard shouting from their windows about years of assaults against the victim. This example demonstrates the sort of issues that true crime documentaries should address: capitalizing on social problems and holding a mirror up to the horrifying reality.

Ultimately, "Murder 24/7" offers a refreshing and timely format that combines binge-worthy content with substantial learning. It challenges viewers to think critically about the system and themselves, ultimately providing a more meaningful and educational experience than traditional true crime shows.