The Toby Theory That Changes Everything On The Office

"The Office" generally kept things light, depicting a grounded and relatable workplace in which the biggest day-to-day problems were an overbearing boss and obnoxious coworkers. However, as the series progressed, it began to delve deeper into its characters, exploring adult life's complex realities. The toxic turn that Michael and Jan's (Melora Hardin) relationship takes in the fourth season is an excellent example of this, as is Ryan's (BJ Novak) developing substance abuse issue in the same season. One of the darker storylines the show explored was the saga of the Scranton Strangler, in which Toby became deeply involved. The Scranton Strangler story began in the Season 6 episode "The Delivery" when Andy (Ed Helms) gifted a framed newspaper to Jim and Pam from the day their daughter, Cece, was born. Unfortunately, Andy's thoughtful gift becomes a little less adorable when he reveals the newspaper headline – "The Scranton Strangler Strikes Again."

What could have been a one-off gag becomes an increasingly present part of the show, as the media storm surrounding the case heats up. The Scranton Strangler is mentioned in passing a few times more times in Season 6 but really becomes a part of the show in Season 7. At one point, the police pursuit of the Scranton Strangler passes Dunder Mifflin, and later Toby becomes a member of the jury that votes to sentence the defendant, George Howard Skub, to death. Toby's involvement in the case proceeds to haunt him into Season 9, as he is convinced that he helped convict an innocent man. He is so wracked by guilt that he even visits the George Howard Skub in prison, an encounter that he walks away from with severe neck injuries.