A serialized drama series based on journalist David Simon's nonfiction book about the Baltimore, Maryland, Police Department's Homicide Division. Follows the relationships that develop in the unit while the detectives go through their investigations. Detective Frank Pembleton is an intense loner and tough interrogator who is recovering from a recent stroke. His partner, Tim Bayliss, has been seasoned by investigations into some particularly brutal crimes. Mike Kellerman, the rookie, is a driven detective. Meldrick Lewis is a hard-working detective with a dry sense of humor. Even drier is Detective John Munch, the squad cynic. Kay Howard is sharp and ambitious, recently was promoted to sergeant. J.H. Brodie is the squad's videographer. Guiding the team is Lt. Al Giardello, who continuously struggles with bureaucratic pressure while supporting his detectives and driving them on. Chief Medical Examiner Julianna Cox works closely with the detectives and isn't afraid to challenge their investigations.