Factual

UK-based distributor Sphere Abacus has acquired five new true crime series from award-winning producers, strengthening its catalogue ahead of this year’s London Screenings.

The acquisitions include "Skegness Psycho: 28 Miles to Murder" (2 x one hour), produced by FirstLookTV for Crime & Investigation; "A Perfect Scam" (10 x one hour) and "Check-In To Murder" (10 x one hour), both produced by Peninsula Television for Crime & Investigation; and "Look What You Made Me Do" (10 x one hour) and "Police Pursuits" (12 x one hour), produced by Law & Crime Productions for the Law & Crime channel.

Sphere Abacus’ Managing Director, Jonathan Ford, comments, “It has been said that True Crime programming continues to soar in popularity around the world because it tells real stories about real people, making it even more captivating and intriguing than fiction. This view is confirmed by these five series from some of the world’s premiere factual producers, and by the 1600 hours of crime series Sphere Abacus has sold in the last 12 months. We’re delighted to have such diverse new examples of the genre to share with our clients.”

“Skegness Psycho: 28 Miles to Murder” recounts the tragic story of Bethany Vincent, a mother-of-two who unknowingly entered into a relationship with a violent criminal. The two-part documentary follows the events leading up to the fatal attack and explores the emotional impact of the case through in-depth interviews.

“A Perfect Scam” focuses on victims of sophisticated fraud schemes, from romance scams to financial and digital cons, revealing the emotional and financial devastation they leave behind. In some of the most harrowing cases, the psychological consequences prove fatal.

“Check-In To Murder” examines shocking crimes committed in seemingly idyllic British holiday settings, highlighting how guesthouses, seaside cottages and B&Bs became the backdrop to violent acts that shattered local communities.

Meanwhile, “Look What You Made Me Do” explores cases driven by jealousy, rage and betrayal that escalate into extreme violence, while “Police Pursuits” offers high-octane storytelling through real-life chases and dramatic arrests captured on camera.