‘True Crime Files’ Joins Syndication In Fall

The Investigation Discovery (ID) cable network is for the first time bringing some of its highest-rated programming to broadcast syndication.

The nationally syndicated hour-long True Crime Files will premiere in fall 2018 airing on the Tribune Broadcasting stations and the Sinclair Broadcast Group stations along with other stations and has already been sold in 60% of the U.S.

True Crime Files in syndication will initially comprise 260 broadcast premiere hours selected from ID’s extensive library. ID, which features mystery and suspense programming, says it will “release content from television’s hottest genre enabling stations to create a new successful proven franchise for years to come.”

“True crime programming has never been more popular in the U.S., and as the top destination for the genre, we’re excited to expand Investigation Discovery’s deep library of compelling real-life stories to an even wider audience,” said Henry S. Schleiff, group president, Investigation Discovery, Destination America and American Heroes Channel.

In 2017, ID became the No. 1 network for delivery of women 25-54 in total day and the No. 22 network for adults 25-54, according to the network. In primetime, ID was the No. 5 ad-supported cable network for women 25-54.

Investigation Discovery, part of Discovery Communications, is available in more than 84 million households in the U.S. 

“The success or these programs is undisputed. True crime stories have a long history of working in every time period on many different channels,” said Arthur Hasson, COO of Sinclair Programming. “We look forward to continuing this track of success with this syndicated offering.”

True Crime Files is being sold and marketed by Joe DiSalvo and Barry Wallach, former presidents of CBS Television Distribution and NBC Domestic Television Distribution, respectively, in conjunction with Elliot Wagner, vice president of Discovery Global Enterprises.