In "Prescription: Murder", "Suitable for Framing" and especially "A Case of Immunity" pressure is put on the L.A. Police Department to have Columbo ease up. In the first two examples the higher-ups collude with. Columbo to give the impression that he is off the case, but they keep him on.

In "Immunity" however, Columbo is told flat out that even if he's sure who the murderer is the federal government doesn't care! Despite explicit orders to stay away from the legation he still goes there during an important diplomatic function, allegedly to personally apologize. Could you imagine being an important diplomat and this shabby local cop shows up AGAIN while the King himself is visiting? He even eats some of the King's specially prepared food. It's outrageous behavior and to me it's the ultimate example of Columbo not being intimidated. Of course we later find out that he secretly contacted the King, but probably not before that party.

Also there is "Identity Crisis" where once again the federal government steps in and explicitly tells Columbo to back off. And once again Columbo ignores them despite the Director of the CIA personally flying in.

Columbo had cojones.

Great post, Pete! You ended with exactly what I didn't quite say, but meant.