'Buffy' vampire to play detective

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 16 (UPI) -- James Marsters, known to U.S. audiences as Spike from "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," will play a detective in a recurring part on the CBS hit "Without A Trace."

Marsters will play a detective who comes into contact with the FBI's missing persons squad in New York while investigating a human-trafficking ring, Zap2It.com reported Thursday. After initial contact with Special Agent Vivian Johnson, played by Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Marsters will become part of task force dealing with human trafficking.

Besides stints as Spike on "Buffy" and its spin-off, "Angel," his resume includes appearances on "Smallville," the USA Network movie "Cool Money" and guest roles on "Northern Exposure" and TNT's "Saving Grace." On the big screen, Marsters will be in "P.S., I Love You," due for a September release.