Shield for Murder

A veteran detective who has become corrupt and dangerous, driven by pride and fear of exposure. He methods are violent and calculated, staging events to cover up his crime while clinging to a semblance of respectability.

A rough private investigator hired as muscle to pressure others. He embodies the noir underworld's blunt force approach and indicates the level of intimidation used in the pursuit of money.

Barney's girlfriend who becomes entangled in his scheme. Her trust shifts as she weighs loyalty against the growing danger around them.

The bookmaker's boss who dispatches investigators to recover the missing money. His businesslike demeanor shows how crime and money intersect in this world.

A private investigator who accompanies Michaels and pushes for results. He represents the procedural side of the criminal hunt.

Police captain who initially defends Barney but becomes part of the broader investigation as the truth emerges.

Barney's friend and protégé whose persistence in uncovering the truth drives the investigation forward.

A reporter who probes rumors and challenges the police narrative, acting as a catalyst for exposing the truth.

A deaf-mute witness who records the murder in notes, his account becomes crucial evidence even as danger closes in.