There are two types of people in the world: people who watch true crime documentaries and people who don’t. Whether you identify as a true crime lover or not, you probably know more than one person who is always bingeing the latest grizzly docuseries or listens to so many true crime podcasts that they should just host their own. The good news is, listeners of true crime podcasts and radio shows are increasing. According to Spotify, the number of audio true crime listeners has nearly tripled in the last five years. The most popular month to listen to true crime is — October, of course!
Shopping for a self-proclaimed detective has never been easier, not to mention a fun task if you happen to share this interest with your BFF, sibling or co-worker. From bestselling books to immersive cold case games to personal safety gadgets, we rounded up some of the best true crime gifts for anyone who can’t get enough of the genre that will surely impress or become their next obsession — or yours!
Best gifts for the true crime-obsessed
Any “Murderino” will proudly display this cross stitch in their home, after all, it is wise words to live by. This is a PDF pattern, so you can gift the download or stitch it yourself.
Cold case followers will love this book of crime-themed puzzles. It has over 3,000 Amazon ratings, with one verified reviewer writing, “[It’s] fun and gets your brain thinking. Talked about the relevant cases and criminals like Zodiac killer! Which is cool, and something to do in your free time.”
This spoon will be an all-around hit for both true crime and breakfast lovers. If you're looking for a stocking stuffer with a little bit of humor, many people wrote that it was a perfectly useful gag gift.
If you’re looking for a housewarming gift, wish them well with this candle that says it all. You can even choose from seven different scents.
Do you really want to put their knowledge to this test? According to the publisher, “The Ultimate Serial Killer Trivia Book” features obscure facts about any question you’ve ever had about these infamous characters, from “What jobs attract the most serial killers?” to “What movie franchise inspires the most copycats?” They might divulge this book faster than their last docuseries marathon.
Fellow true crime enthusiast and associate editor Sierra Hoeger says this book immediately hooked her. It’s a pick for any true crime fan wanting to learn more about the birth of the FBI and one of Oklahoma’s most haunting murders, and it’s also an Academy Award-nominated film.
Do they have hundreds of hours of documentary viewing clocked? Since they basically are a detective at this point, this shirt allows them to wear that badge proudly. The seller offers this shirt in tons of different styles and a variety of colors.
This classic board game might have been where their love for a good mystery began. Give them the gift of nostalgia by bringing them back to the Tudor mansion, where players have to figure out who did it, with that weapon and in what room.
Crime scene cookies for their next crime documentary marathon? I think yes. These easy-to-use cookie cutters are guaranteed to shock your true crime-loving friends.
Personal safety is always at the forefront of a true crime aficionado’s mind. That’s why this safety gadget would make a great gift for them to have on hand. According to the brand, this lock inserts across the doorknob lock and provides an extra layer of security.
This is a Shop TODAY editor favorite. Former associate editor Fran Sales even says it’s “not just a true crime book; it’s pretty much art.”
Before and at the time of her sudden death, true crime journalist Michelle McNamara dedicated her life to finding the California serial killer by interviewing victims, scouring police reports, and documenting her findings, which many say would ultimately help lead to his arrest, according to the publisher.
If they are a fan of the podcast "Crime Junkie", they probably know the author Ashley Flowers for her witty insights and remarks on the podcast. What they probably didn't know is that she is also a fiction author with this true crime book. Shop TODAY editorial assistant Annie Shigo has this book and says, "It is one of the best mysteries I have read, and had so many twists and turns!"
If you know someone who lives for “Dateline” nights, then this wine glass is for them. They can enjoy a little vino while immersed in the newest episode of the iconic show and look completely on brand.
While every platform covers this infamous serial killer at some point, this book is truly a unique and personal account that will blow the mind of even the most seasoned crime reader and watcher.
If you know a true crime lover, chances are they’re listening to the hit podcast “My Favorite Murder.” This book is co-written by hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark and is a No. 1 New York Times bestseller. According to the publisher, the two recount pivotal life moments, discuss true crime stories that shaped them, and why women shouldn’t always feel the need to be polite — all through their iconic honesty and humor.
Start their year off right with the page-a-day calendar filled with stories about some of the most notorious serial killers, thieves, and forensic breakthroughs that can be read day by day.
Pour up a cocktail in tandem with your favorite true crime stories. 75 step-by-step drink recipes give you more than enough time to discover the stories of Jon Benét Ramsey, Ted Bundy and even a few cult stories.
If they ever wanted to feel like a real-life detective or FBI agent, this is their chance! With three clues to crack, the brand says this cold case game features over 50 documents to sift through, which include crime sift through, which include crime scene photos, an evidence report, witness statements and more.
Help them get cozy during their next podcast or docuseries binge with this crewneck sweatshirt, which is inspired by the iconic Dateline host. The seller offers it up to size 5XL, which is perfect for those who prefer oversized sweaters.
This bestselling safety alarm can be hooked on your keys or purse and makes a great gift for women. Because it's a non-violent safety device, it's also travel-friendly, says the brand. It's a No. 1 bestseller, with one reviewer writing, "This was an item I bought my future daughter-in-law, and she travels a lot and is always going somewhere with work, she was very happy when she saw this as one of her Christmas presents."
True crime fans are most likely super fans of Olivia Benson and the SVU gang. They’ll feel a part of the Special Victims Unit in this embroidered baseball cap.
Whether they’re the hostess with the most-ess or you’re looking to gather all of your mystery-loving friends for a night of fun, this immersive murder mystery game takes place aboard a luxury cruise liner and is sure to impress.
Elevate their "Dateline" viewing with this blanket that will make them feel completely cozy, all while being wrapped up with their favorite correspondents. One side is even sherpa-lined for extra comfort.
These binders have been all over TikTok and dubbed the "In Case I Go Missing" folder, but it is a clever way to store important materials and documents in case of an emergency. The brand says there are 10 expandable and different-sized envelopes and even has 30 labels for allergies, travel plans, a list of friends and exes and more. The retailer's website also allows you to personalize the cover.
If they love to listen to true crime podcasts, it's always a great idea to get them a year membership for Spotify. Shigo uses this app to listen to her true crime favorites and says, " I would love this gift because a lot of shows I listen to have subscriber-only episodes that cost more, so this would cover that!"
How we chose the best true crime gifts
The Shop TODAY team works hard to find the best products and coolest gifts out there. We use our own personal experiences with brands and shopping to find the most unique gifts on the market that are sure to be a hit with true crime lovers.
Don’t forget to check out Shop TODAY’s other gift guides to find the perfect present for the tween, teen and young adult on your list including book lovers, movie lovers, music lovers, TV lovers, wine lovers, game lovers and more.
