Ep 15. Swept Away - A Very Special Episode

Swept Away - A Very Special Episode is the fifteenth episode of the eleventh season of Law & Order, which aired on February 28, 2001. This episode deals with the sensitive issue of domestic violence.

The episode revolves around the death of a young woman named Tracy Brandt. Tracy's body is found floating in the Hudson River, and it is discovered that she was five months pregnant. The investigation leads the detectives to her husband, Jason Brandt, who has a history of domestic violence.

As the detectives delve deeper into Tracy and Jason's relationship, they uncover a disturbing pattern of abuse. Tracy's friend, Lauren, reveals that Jason was physically and emotionally abusive towards Tracy. Lauren recounts instances where Tracy had bruises and marks on her body, and Jason had even threatened her with a gun.

As the investigation progresses, the detectives face a major challenge in the form of Tracy's mother. She insists that Tracy was happy in her marriage and that there was never any violence. However, the detectives learn that Tracy's mother was a victim of domestic violence herself, which may explain why she is reluctant to accept that her daughter was enduring the same.

In the courtroom, the case takes a surprising turn when Jason's defense lawyer raises the issue of Tracy's mental state. It is revealed that Tracy had a history of depression and that she was taking medication for it. The defense lawyer suggests that Tracy's death may have been a suicide, and that Jason is being wrongly accused.

The defense's strategy of blaming the victim creates a rift among the detectives, as well as in the courtroom. ADA McCoy is forced to confront his own biases and assumptions about victims of domestic violence and the impact of mental illness.

The case reaches its climax when a witness, who had been summoned by the defense, surprises everyone with his testimony. The witness, a doctor, had treated Tracy for depression and had prescribed her medication. He reveals that Jason had come to his office and had demanded that he stop treating Tracy, claiming that her depression was "all in her head."

The revelation that Jason had prevented Tracy from seeking treatment for her depression cements his guilt in the eyes of the jury. The verdict is returned, and justice is finally served for Tracy and her unborn child.

Swept Away - A Very Special Episode is a powerful and emotional portrayal of the devastating effects of domestic violence. It highlights the need for society to take this issue seriously and for victims to seek help and support. This episode is a reminder that domestic violence is not just a private matter but a crime.