Ep 12. These Old Bones

In season 3 episode 12 of NYPD Blue, titled "These Old Bones," the detectives of the 15th precinct receive a call about a body found in a building that is being demolished. The remains are those of a young woman who was murdered decades ago, and the detectives are tasked with identifying the victim and finding her killer.

As the investigation unfolds, the detectives interview the people who worked in the building at the time of the murder, including the owner of a clothing store who was close to the victim. They also enlist the help of a retired detective who worked on the case years before. This retired detective has a personal connection to the investigation, as he was forced into retirement after being accused of planting evidence in the original case.

Meanwhile, Detective Andy Sipowicz faces his own personal struggles as he battles his alcohol addiction. His issues come to a head when he is asked to speak to a group of recovering alcoholics and he breaks down in front of the group.

As the case progresses, the detectives uncover several suspects, including a former employee of the building who had been fired and a man who had been arrested for a similar crime in another state. Ultimately, they are able to solve the case and bring the killer to justice.

In "These Old Bones," the detectives of the 15th precinct are reminded that while justice may be delayed, it is never truly denied. The episode is a reminder that even the most cold cases can be solved with persistence and dedication. It also shows the toll that police work can take on detectives, both professionally and personally.