We must be vigilant in our actions towards criminals, and innovative in our approach towards solving crime.

There are no crimes and no criminals in these days. What is the use of having brains in our profession? I know well that I have it in me to make my name famous. No man lives or has ever lived who has brought the same amount of study and of natural talent to the detection of crime which I have done. And what is the result? There is no crime to detect, or, at most, some bungling villainy with a motive so transparent that even a Scotland Yard official can see through it.

In the 1990s, we introduced Boston's community policing strategy. We reversed the tide of violent crime that threatened our city, and we established a national model for preventing and fighting crime.

Michelle had great admiration for criminals and crime, though only from a distance.

Let's use the energy of this historic year to propel us toward our shared vision of a greater Boston.

In a mystery, the sleuth must be believably involved and emotionally invested in solving the crime.