Ep 17. Act of God

In Law & Order season 5 episode 17 titled "Act of God," the detectives of the 27th precinct are tasked with investigating a case involving the death of a woman who was struck by a falling air conditioner unit.

The episode opens with Briscoe and Curtis arriving at the scene of the accident, where they find the victim lying lifeless on the sidewalk. A witness tells them that the air conditioner unit had fallen off the window of an apartment building above and crushed the woman. The detectives first assume that it was an accident, but soon find evidence suggesting foul play.

As they investigate further, they discover that the air conditioning unit had been tampered with and deliberately loosened by someone. The detectives then begin to trace the ownership of the apartment where the unit was installed, leading them to a landlord named Warren Grafton who has a history of failing health inspections and violating housing codes.

Grafton initially denies any involvement in the woman's death, but the detectives eventually uncover evidence linking him to the crime. They also learn that Grafton had previously been sued by tenants for negligence and unsafe living conditions, making him a prime suspect.

Meanwhile, the medical examiner discovers that the victim was pregnant at the time of her death, which adds a new layer of complexity to the case. The detectives must now determine if the pregnancy played a role in the crime or if it was just a tragic coincidence.

As the investigation continues, the detectives find themselves in a race against time to build a solid case against Grafton before he can cover his tracks. The episode features several twists and turns, including a shocking revelation about the true identity of the killer.

With its trademark focus on exonerating the innocent and bringing the guilty to justice, Law & Order season 5 episode 17 "Act of God" showcases the show's commitment to exploring complex legal and ethical issues. It's a gripping episode that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.