The Progress of a Crime

The Progress of a Crime is a 1960 mystery crime novel by the British writer Julian Symons. It was awarded the 1961 Edgar Award for Best Novel.

Synopsis
Hugh Bennett, a local reporter, sees what looks like a horrible crime taking place on a village green on Guy Fawkes Night. Right in front of the bonfire, a publican is stabbed to death by a gang of young males. However, once the case comes to court, Bennett begins to have doubts about exactly what he did witness.