I'm not just trying to be different (let alone put anyone down), but whatever my reason for liking "elite" criminals on Columbo, it isn't that "how the mighty have fallen" reason, which I've never gone in for. (I spent months NOT watching the O.J. trial.)

The reason is "the touch of class" and the difference from other "cop shows".

1st ep: psychiatrist
2nd ep: lawyer
3rd ep: (co)writer [or co(writer) :-)]
4th ep: head of investigation company
5th ep: general
6th ep: art critic
7th ep: heiress of an "advertising empire"
8th ep: chemist
9th ep: architect

etc ...

2nd SEASON

1) orchestra conductor ("maestro")
2) botanist and orchids collector
3) manager of a sport empire
4) theatre actors
5) actress/star
6) surgeon
7) chess champions
8) heirs of a financial fortune