Ep 9. Indifference

In Law & Order season 1 episode 9 titled "Indifference," the story follows the murder of a six-year-old girl who was left alone in a bathtub for a few hours. The victim's mother, Linda (played by Barbara Garrick), claimed that she left the girl to visit her boyfriend, but when she returned, the child was submerged in the water and unresponsive. The police detectives (played by Christopher Noth and George Dzundza) investigate the case and find out that Linda has a history of drug addiction and neglecting her children.

As the investigation continues, the detectives discover that Linda's other daughter is also being neglected and has a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention. They arrest Linda and her boyfriend for the girl's murder, and the case goes to trial. However, the defense attorney argues that the mother's drug addiction is a disease that she cannot control, and therefore, she should not be held responsible for her actions.

The episode raises some ethical questions about the justice system and whether people struggling with addiction should be punished or treated as victims. The legal arguments also explore the concept of "indifference" and whether a person's inaction can be considered a form of guilt. The prosecutor makes a compelling case for holding Linda accountable for her daughter's death, arguing that her neglect and drug use were not accidental but deliberate choices that resulted in a tragedy.

Overall, Law & Order season 1 episode 9 is an intense and thought-provoking story that explores the complex issues of addiction, neglect, and accountability. The acting is top-notch, and the script is well-written, making it easy to empathize with the characters and understand their motivations. While the episode deals with a tragic and disturbing subject matter, it is handled with sensitivity and respect, and it remains a powerful reminder of the role that the justice system can play in preventing harm and ensuring justice for victims.