Ep 3. The Long & Winding Road

During season 3, episode 3 of the Australian police drama Blue Heelers, titled "The Long & Winding Road," the main protagonist, Senior Constable Tom Croydon, struggles with his conscience as he tries to apprehend a man he knows personally.

The episode begins with Tom receiving a lead on a drug dealer named Danny Glasby, who has been supplying local kids with ecstasy. Addicted to the drug himself, Danny is known to be volatile and dangerous, but Tom feels responsible for his lifestyle and wants to help him get clean.

However, Tom's personal connection to Danny becomes a problem when he begins to investigate more closely. After arresting one of Danny's associates, Tom discovers that Danny has been involved in the theft of a valuable car, and begins to suspect that he has a larger criminal enterprise at work.

As Tom investigates further, he is torn between his duty as a police officer and his loyalty to his friend. Danny becomes increasingly paranoid and aggressive, and it's clear that he will stop at nothing to protect his operation.

Meanwhile, the other members of the Mt. Thomas Police Station are dealing with their own challenges. Sergeant Jo Parrish is struggling to deal with the aftermath of a sexual assault case, while Constable Maggie Doyle is dealing with a difficult family situation. Senior Sergeant Craddock, the head of the station, tries to keep everyone focused on their work.

As Tom gets closer to Danny, he is forced to confront the reality of his situation. Will he be able to help his friend? Or will he have to make the difficult decision to bring him to justice?

"The Long & Winding Road" is a tense, emotionally wrought episode of Blue Heelers that explores the fine line between duty and loyalty. With strong performances from the cast and a gripping storyline, it is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the end.