Ep 19. Asylum

Barney Miller Season 3 Episode 19 is titled "Asylum". This episode follows the detectives of the 12th precinct as they deal with a number of interesting cases. One of the storylines in this episode revolves around a woman who has a history of mental illness. She comes into the precinct claiming that she has just murdered her husband. However, the detectives quickly realize that things are not quite as they seem when they examine the evidence.

Throughout the episode, the woman continues to act unusual and erratic, making it difficult for the detectives to get a clear idea of what is going on. They consider sending her to a mental health facility for evaluation, but there are concerns about whether or not she will be safe there. In the end, the detectives must make a decision about what is best for the woman's health and safety.

Another storyline in this episode centers around a group of people who have been protesting outside of a local government building. The group has been causing disruptions and has become a nuisance to those who work in the building. The detectives are called in to deal with the situation and must use their negotiation skills to try and convince the protesters to leave peacefully.

As the episode progresses, the detectives must also deal with a series of smaller cases that come their way. These include a purse snatching and a man who has been going around the city impersonating a police officer. While these cases may seem small, they all add to the overall chaos and excitement of the episode.

One of the things that makes this episode stand out is the way that it deals with mental health. The woman who comes into the precinct claiming to have murdered her husband is not just a plot device, but rather a fully fleshed-out character who has experienced trauma and is struggling to cope with her mental illness. Throughout the episode, the detectives show empathy and concern for her well-being, even as they try to solve the case at hand.

Another highlight of this episode is the way that it deals with the theme of authority. The protesters outside of the government building are challenging the authority of those in power, while the man impersonating a police officer is using the authority of the police to his own advantage. The detectives must navigate these different power dynamics in order to maintain order and ensure that justice is served.

Overall, Barney Miller Season 3 Episode 19 is a well-crafted and engaging episode that showcases the talents of the show's writers and actors. It deals with complex themes in a nuanced and thoughtful way, while also providing plenty of action and excitement to keep viewers hooked. Whether you are a long-time fan of the show or are just tuning in for the first time, this episode is definitely worth watching.