Best True Crime Documentaries on Netflix

This groundbreaking series follows Steven Avery, who exonerated after 18 years in prison, and his nephew Brendan Dassey, both accused of a heinous crime. The show sparked nationwide debate about the justice system and prosecutorial misconduct.

HBO produced this gripping miniseries that unravels the life of real estate heir Robert Durst, suspected in multiple deaths. It culminates in a shocking live-television confession, making it a cornerstone of modern true crime documentary filmmaking.

This Netflix original dramatizes the timeline of Jeffrey Dahmer, one of America's most infamous serial killers. It explores the systemic failures that allowed him to victimize 17 men and boys over eleven years, focusing heavily on the perspectives of his victims' families.

This docuseries revisits the controversial death of writer Michael Peterson and the subsequent murder trial of his wife, Katharine. It provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the legal strategies and psychological tactics employed by both the prosecution and defense teams.

Investigative journalists explore the disturbing murder of an elderly couple in Utah and the involvement of members of the LDS Church. The documentary delves into church hierarchy, secrecy, and the complex social pressures within the community.

This docuseries examines the mysterious disappearance of Elisa Lam at the historic Cecil Hotel in Los Angeles. It combines archival footage, interviews, and true crime history to dissect the case alongside the building's dark reputation and other notable events.

Set in the 1980s, this series follows Inspector Jack Slipper and Detective Shirley Miller as they hunt the elusive Yorkshire Ripper. It provides a detailed look at the police investigation and the profound impact the crimes had on the community of Leeds.

This series investigates cases where online child predators were caught by vigilant groups and law enforcement. It highlights the intersection of digital technology and crime prevention, showing how internet activity often leaves undeniable trails leading to arrests.

This true crime series delves into the infamous case of Lyle and Erik Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents. The documentary offers new insights into their childhood, the trials, and the ongoing legal battles surrounding their incarceration.

While based on true events, this series dramatizes the terror faced by a family receiving threatening letters after buying their dream home. It explores the psychological toll of harassment and the mysterious identity of the sender known as 'The Watcher'.

This documentary series exposes various corporate malfeasance and financial crimes across different industries. Each episode focuses on a specific case of greed, deception, and the devastating consequences these scandals have on employees, investors, and the public.

Based on John Grisham's book, this series investigates wrongful convictions in Stillwater, Oklahoma. It highlights how flawed forensic science and tunnel vision by investigators led to the imprisonment of innocent men for decades.

Henry Lee Lucas confessed to hundreds of murders, many of which were likely fabricated. This series explores how his false confessions led to wrongful convictions and the legal chaos that ensued when authorities realized his stories were often lies.

This documentary chronicles the rise of the controversial Indian guru Rajneesh and his commune in Oregon. It covers the bizarre and criminal acts committed by some members, including bio-terrorism and political manipulation, challenging perceptions of religious freedom.

This series revisits the murder of Hae Min Lee and the conviction of Adnan Syed, popularized by the 'Serial' podcast. It provides a comprehensive look at the evidence, the legal arguments, and the lingering questions surrounding Syed's guilt or innocence.

This documentary explores the mysterious case of a man in a trench coat and a hatchet who hitchhiked across America. It analyzes the video footage, social media reactions, and the psychological profile of a figure who may have been a performer or a criminal.

This bizarre documentary series follows Joe Exotic and his rival Carole Baskin in the exotic animal business. It reveals a world of illegal trafficking, violence, and deception, mixing true crime elements with reality TV drama and eccentric characters.

This docuseries investigates the 1965 murder of Sister Catherine Cesnik and the potential involvement of a former priest. It explores the systemic abuse within the church and the reluctance of authorities to pursue leads that implicated powerful institutions.

This four-part series covers the bizarre true story of a pizza restaurant robbery gone wrong and a botched kidnapping. It follows the police investigation into an eccentric suspect whose actions led to the discovery of a body in a septic tank.

While primarily a drama series, it is based on the non-fiction book by Jon Krakauer. It intertwines a contemporary murder investigation with historical accounts of fundamentalist Mormonism, exploring themes of faith, violence, and domestic abuse.