Break in the Case is an original true crime podcast written and produced by the New York City Police Department in conjunction with the New York City Police Foundation. Listen as we follow the world’s greatest detectives to crime scenes—some which you may know, some which you certainly don’t.
The podcast offers listeners a glimpse into the police department's work and raises awareness about open cases that would benefit from information from the public. In many instances, the stories featured are pulled from the Detective Bureau's casefiles, and the storytelling features officers in their own voices as they revisit crime scenes to offer recollections and insights.
Break in the Case is available on all major podcast platforms. Season One launched in October, 2019 and spanned six episodes. After a hiatus during COVID-19, Season Two was published in September, 2021. The current season runs through February, 2022.
More than entertainment, "Break in the Case" captures the humanity of NYPD officers and the department's connection with those they serve throughout New York City, whose tips are integral in the work of clearing cases. The podcast raises public awareness about the department's public safety initiatives, such as Crimestoppers, and is part of the department's mission to serve all neighborhoods.
Break in the Case is researched, written, edited and produced by an in-house creative team within NYPD’s Strategic Communications unit. Executive Producer Jill Bauerle and Producer Kenzie Delaine develop the show under the leadership of Richard Esposito.
Retired Detective Sergeant Wallace Zeins (NA Session 152) worked at the NYPD from 1973 to 2003, ending his career on Night Watch, an exclusive team that investigates all the homicides and high-profile crimes between the hours of midnight and 8 a.m. His experience brings him the insight necessary to tell the stories of Break in the Case. Wally also served on the hostage negotiation team and became a commanding officer. Nationally recognized for his work as a hostage negotiator, Wally is a frequent guest on network and local television.
Jill Bauerle is a writer and multimedia storyteller. She specializes in podcast production, and has directed feature-length and short documentaries for web, film and television. She works as an Executive Digital Producer at the New York City Police Department.
Kenzie Delaine is a former television journalist who works as an Executive Digital Producer in the New York City Police Department.