'Elementary' season 5 episode 9 synopsis, release date: Shinwell needs the detective duo to clear his name

In the upcoming episode of "Elementary" season 5, CBS' TV adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's detective novels, parolee Shinwell (Nelsan Ellis) will be needing the help of the eccentric detective Sherlock (Jonny Lee Miller) and his friend and colleague Joan (Lucy Liu).

In episode 9 of the current season of "Elementary," titled "It Serves You Right to Suffer," Shinwell will be framed for murder, and he will be needing the exemplary skills of the detectives to clear his name. The pair have only three days to solve the crime, find the murderer, and prevent him from being shoved back into prison. The episode was directed by Aidan Quinn, who portrays Captain Tommy Gregson in the series. This episode will serve as his TV directorial debut.

Ellis' Shinwell was last seen in the seventh episode of the season, titled "Bang Bang Shoot Chute," wherein Joan found out that he had violated his parole. The former convict was seen with gang member Tall Boy (Ruffin Prentiss). Though the detectives let him loose and just reminded him of the consequences of his actions, in the episode, the parolee sounded pretty firm about not needing Joan's help.

Viewers can expect a few guest stars in episode 9. "Entourage" actress Debi Mazar guest stars in the episode as Detective Cosa. Aside from Mazar, fans can expect to see Dorian Missick as Agent Whitlock, Susan Blommaert as Dr. Xanthopoulos, Jeremy Burnett as Duane, and Ruffin Prentiss will reprise his role as gang member Tall Boy.

As per usual, fans will be able to see the regular cast members of "Sherlock." Aside from the crime-busting duo, Quinn's Captain Gregson and Ellis' Shinwell, Jon Michael Hill is slated to appear as Detective Marcus Bell.

"Elementary" season 5 episode 9, titled "It Serves You Right To Suffer," will air on Sunday, Dec. 11, at 10 p.m. EST on CBS.