Ep 25. The First Stone

In Blue Heelers season 2 episode 25, titled The First Stone, the small town of Mt. Thomas is shaken by accusations of sexual harassment made against a well-liked local businessman. When young female employees at his company come forward with their stories of unwanted advances and inappropriate behaviour, the man's reputation is quickly tarnished and the community is divided over how to handle the situation.

The case falls to the police officers of Mt. Thomas, led by Senior Sergeant Tom Croydon (John Wood) and Detective Maggie Doyle (Lisa McCune). As they investigate the allegations, they must navigate the complex emotions and conflicting accounts of the witnesses involved, including the accused businessman himself (played by Adam May).

Adding to the tension is the fact that the man's wife (played by Susan Lyons) is a respected member of the community who refuses to believe that her husband could be capable of such misconduct. The investigation also dredges up painful memories for Maggie, who has faced sexual harassment in the workplace before and struggles to keep her emotions in check.

As the case unfolds, the team must wrestle with difficult questions around justice and accountability. Should the accused man be presumed innocent until proven guilty, or should the women who have come forward be believed and supported? How can the police uncover the truth without causing further harm to those involved? And what role should the community play in holding their own members accountable for their actions?

Throughout The First Stone, the Blue Heelers team grapples with these complex issues, while also dealing with their personal lives. Tom confronts his own biases and assumptions about the case, while Maggie's dedication to her job strains her relationship with her partner Nick (William McInnes).

Overall, The First Stone is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged episode that tackles timely issues around workplace harassment and the responsibilities of law enforcement and communities in addressing such incidents. With its skilled performances and nuanced exploration of the subject matter, it is a standout entry in the Blue Heelers series.