Cold case
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Note: This page is about unsolved criminal investigations. Are you looking for the CBS television drama "Cold Case"?
The term cold case refers to a criminal investigation (or "case") that remains unsolved and "on the books". Typically, the crime in a cold case a violent one, such as murder or rape (because it is unlikely that unsolved minor crimes would remain on the books for very long).
A case is considered unsolved until a suspect has been identified, charged, and tried for the crime. A case that goes to trial and does not result in a conviction can also be kept on the books pending new evidence. Many times, those investigating the case have a suspect in mind but have not been able to find evidence sufficient to charge the suspect with the crime.
With the advent of new DNA testing and other forensics technology, many cold cases are being re-opened and prosecuted. Police departments are opening cold case units whose job is to re-examine cold case files.