Which of the following terms is synonymous with heinous concerning crimes?

The term "heinous" is often used to describe crimes that are particularly atrocious or shockingly evil, suggesting that such acts are morally reprehensible and deeply disturbing. The word "wicked" embodies a similar connotation, as it also refers to actions that are profoundly immoral or villainous. Therefore, describing a crime as "wicked" aligns closely with the idea of it being heinous, highlighting the severity and moral outrage associated with the act.

In contrast, the other terms present a starkly different meaning. "Innocent" denotes a lack of wrongdoing, "benign" implies a harmless or non-threatening nature, and "justifiable" suggests that an action can be defended or is reasonable under certain circumstances. None of these alternatives convey the same level of moral condemnation associated with heinous or wicked acts. Thus, wicked is the correct synonym for heinous regarding crimes.