As a result of the murders, fear of crime among Austin residents reached an all-time high, even though the crime rate dropped 2 percent from the previous year; handgun sales shot; and self-defense classes were overbooked. 48 HOURS used the high-profile investigation as the hook for an in-depth look at the effects of crime on American cities. In exchange for indemnification and the right to argue against the broadcast of any part of the videotape that could damage an ongoing investigation, the police department agreed to let TV cameras onto crime scenes, to shadow homicide investigators at work and at home, and in general, to have special access to all areas. Per agreement with the department, 48 HOURS would not relinquish footage to any other station prior to the scheduled network broadcast. In the end, the broadcast presented an accurate and informative look at crime in America and how it affects families, communities, and police officers.