Ep 5. For the Community

In Blue Bloods season 7 episode 5, titled "For the Community," tensions rise when the African American community becomes frustrated with the NYPD's handling of a case involving a young girl's death. Erin, the assistant district attorney, finds herself in the middle of the conflict as she struggles to hold the police accountable while also maintaining a good relationship with the department. Meanwhile, Danny and Baez investigate a shooting at a community center, and Jamie is assigned to work with a new partner.

As the episode begins, Erin is at odds with the NYPD over their handling of the case involving the young girl's death. The community has taken to the streets in protest, and tensions are high as they demand justice for the victim. Erin is torn between upholding the law and protecting her relationship with the police department, which has been crucial to her success as an ADA.

At the same time, Danny and Baez are investigating a shooting at a community center. The victim is a well-respected member of the community, and the case becomes even more complicated when it is revealed that the shooter was a young boy. Danny and Baez struggle to make sense of the situation as they work to bring the shooter to justice while also understanding the root causes of the violence.

Meanwhile, Jamie is assigned to work with a new training officer, Officer Eddie Janko. Eddie is a rookie and eager to prove herself, but Jamie finds himself constantly at odds with her methods. Despite their differences, they continue to work together and eventually find common ground as they try to solve a case involving a missing woman.

Throughout the episode, the relationships between law enforcement and the community are explored in depth. The tension and mistrust between the African American community and the NYPD is palpable, and Erin's struggle to hold police officers accountable while also maintaining positive relationships with them is a central theme. Similarly, Danny and Baez's investigation of the shooting at the community center raises important questions about gun violence and youth culture in New York City.

Overall, "For the Community" is a thought-provoking episode of Blue Bloods that addresses important issues surrounding policing and community relations. Erin, Danny, Baez, Jamie, and Eddie each have their own struggles and challenges to overcome as they work to uphold the law and serve their communities. The episode is a reminder that the complex issues facing law enforcement and communities cannot be easily solved, but that diligent effort and a commitment to justice can make a difference.