Ep 13. Hot Dogs

Barney Miller season 2 episode 13, titled 'Hot Dogs,' revolves around the detectives of the 12th precinct as they deal with various cases while trying to tackle their personal issues. As the episode starts, Wojo, one of the detectives, is upset about a newspaper article which suggests that cops are overpaid. He tries to vent his frustrations to his colleagues but is interrupted by a man who brings in his wife, who has been arrested for stealing a hot dog. She claims that her pregnancy made her do it, but the detectives aren't convinced.

Meanwhile, Carmine, another detective, is engaged in a hilarious debate with Chano, the only Latino cop, about whether the word 'chili' should be spelled with two or three 'Ls.' They exchange several arguments, but it's all in fun, as they both appreciate a good laugh, a trait that's common among the detectives.

As the day progresses, the detectives handle various other cases, including a woman who claims that her husband was kidnapped and forced to play Russian Roulette, a woman who reports a peeping Tom, and a man who seeks protection from the mob. Through it all, Barney Miller, the captain of the precinct, tries to keep his team focused on the job, while also dealing with his own personal problems, including a lingering cold and a failing marriage.

The episode is well written, with each case being given the right amount of screen time to keep the audience engaged. The humor is clever and often unexpected, making the serious moments all the more intense. There is a sense of authenticity to the show, as the detectives interact with people from different walks of life, from the petty criminal to the wealthy businessman.

The characters themselves are the show's strongest asset, with each being unique in their approach to police work. Wojo is the rough but fair cop who will do anything to protect his fellow officers. Fish is the aged veteran who brings his wisdom and quirky humor to the team. Chano is the energetic, young cop who sometimes takes himself too seriously, but always has the best intentions. Lastly, there's the captain himself, Barney Miller, who is the level-headed leader that keeps everyone on track.

Overall, Barney Miller season 2 episode 13, 'Hot Dogs,' is an entertaining and well-written episode that showcases the talents of the show's cast and writers. It's a classic police procedural that stands the test of time and is still enjoyable to watch decades after its original airing. If you're a fan of classic sitcoms or police dramas, this is an episode that should not be missed.