Ep 13. Unorthodox

In Law & Order: Special Victims Unit season 9 episode 13, titled "Unorthodox," the SVU team finds themselves investigating a case involving a Hasidic Jew who allegedly killed his wife. The case proves to be particularly challenging for the detectives as they are faced with navigating the strict religious customs and traditions of the Hasidic community in order to solve the crime.

The episode begins with Detective Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) and her partner Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni) responding to a crime scene where a Hasidic woman has been found dead in her home. The victim, Miriam Glicksman, was discovered by her husband, Mendy Glicksman (played by guest star Shuler Hensley), who claims to have found her body when he returned home from evening prayers. Although Mendy appears to be cooperative with the investigation, Benson and Stabler quickly become suspicious of his story.

Their suspicions are further heightened when they learn that Miriam had been seeking a divorce from Mendy, a highly unusual move in the Hasidic community. As the detectives delve deeper into the case, they uncover a world of strict religious codes and practices that make investigating such crimes exceptionally difficult. The Hasidic community is highly insular and distrustful of outsiders, and the detectives struggle to gain the trust of its members.

Complicating matters further is the fact that many of the Hasidic women are taught to be submissive and obedient to their husbands, which can make it difficult for them to come forward with information about abuse or violence. However, Benson and Stabler are eventually able to connect with Miriam's sister, Rochel (played by guest star Tovah Feldshuh), who provides them with crucial information about the troubled marriage between Miriam and Mendy.

As the investigation continues, Benson and Stabler begin to suspect that Mendy may have been motivated by a desire to protect his standing in the Hasidic community. The community puts a premium on maintaining appearances and avoiding scandal, and Mendy may have seen his wife's desire for a divorce as a threat to his standing in the community.

As the detectives close in on the truth, they are faced with a difficult decision about how to proceed. They must weigh the desire for justice against the potential fallout that could come from exposing the secrets of a closed and insular community.

"Unorthodox" is a standout episode of the series, with a taut and thoughtful script that explores the tension between religious tradition and the pursuit of justice. The episode features excellent performances from the main cast, including Hargitay and Meloni, and strong guest turns from Hensley and Feldshuh. The episode is also notable for its respectful treatment of the Hasidic community, which is depicted as complex and multifaceted rather than simply being villainized. Overall, "Unorthodox" is a compelling and thought-provoking episode that is sure to stick with viewers long after it's over.