Ep 3. Money Train

In season 5 episode 3 of CopyCat Killers titled "Money Train," viewers delve into the real-life story of a man who turned to robbery to achieve his dreams of making it rich. The episode focuses on the chilling case of the "Money Train Robbery" that took place in New York City in 1993.

The episode begins by setting the scene of the bustling city in the early 90s, where crime rates were high and the streets were full of danger. The show then introduces the audience to the man at the center of the crime – Nicky Barnes. Barnes was a notorious drug lord in the city and was known for his sophisticated drug empire. However, despite earning millions, Barnes had averted his attention towards a new scheme to make even more money - robbing the New York City subway.

The episode then introduces the audience to the "Money Train," a heavily guarded subway car filled with millions of dollars in cash. When Barnes learns of this train, he sees it as the perfect opportunity to carry out his plan. With the help of his gang, Barnes devises a plan to rob the train, which involves a fake fire in an adjacent subway station meant to distract the guards and allow them to break into the train.

Viewers watch as the gang executes the daring heist on December 23, 1993, on a cold winter’s day. In a fast-paced sequence, the gang attacks the train and steals millions of dollars in just a few minutes. However, the euphoria is short-lived as the police quickly track down the thieves and Barnes is arrested, marking the end of his reign as one of New York City's most infamous drug lords.

But the episode doesn't just focus on the crime itself - it delves into the minds of the criminals and the factors that led them down such a path. Interviews with experts in criminal behavior and law enforcement officials provide insight into the psychology behind such crimes and reveal how Barnes' greed and ambition led him to risk everything for a quick payout.

Throughout the episode, the audience sees how the crime and its aftermath impacted the city and the lives of the people involved. From the trauma suffered by the train’s conductor to the personal lives of Barnes and his gang members, the show presents a well-rounded picture of the case.

In addition to the expert commentary, the episode also features reenactments of the crime, recreating the tense and chaotic atmosphere of the subway on that fateful day. The recreations are well-executed and offer a thrilling and immersive experience that plunges viewers into the heart of the action.

Ultimately, in "Money Train," CopyCat Killers offers a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most daring robberies in New York City's history. The episode provides a balanced look into the motivations of those who commit such crimes and serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that they can have on the lives of those involved.