Ep 3. Blue Bamboo

In Law & Order season 5 episode 3, titled Blue Bamboo, the team investigates the death of a woman named Lanie. Lanie was a retired school teacher who used to teach refugee children. One day, she was found dead in her home, and the initial investigations lead to a break-in gone wrong. However, as the team digs deeper, they find out that Lanie was not what she seemed.

The detectives discover that Lanie had a lot of money hidden away, and she was involved in a complex web of relationships with refugees. They soon realize that she was smuggling refugees into the country to help them start a new life. The refugees would pay her substantial amounts of money to facilitate their passage.

As the team delves deeper into Lanie's life, they find out that she had an estranged son, who had been involved in a drug syndicate. The detectives wonder if there could be a link between her death and the drug cartel.

Meanwhile, Prosecutor Jack McCoy and his assistant Claire Kincaid build a strong case against the main suspect in the case, a refugee named Chen. However, they soon discover that Chen has been framed, and that the real culprits are still at large. This revelation leads the detectives on a wild goose chase, as they try to uncover the truth.

As the investigation heats up, the detectives come up against several obstacles. They meet several refugees who are living in fear of deportation, and they also have to deal with Lanie's opportunistic ex-husband, who tries to cash in on her death.

In the end, the detectives uncover a conspiracy that goes all the way to the top. They find out that Lanie's death was orchestrated by a corrupt immigration officer, who was taking bribes in exchange for facilitating the passage of refugees. The officers discovered that Lanie was a thorn in their side, as she was arranging the same passage for refugees at a fraction of the officer's prices. The officers wanted to eliminate her as a competitor.

The detectives ultimately bring the perpetrators to justice, and Chen's name is cleared. However, the tragic end to Lanie's story serves as a warning of the dangers of greed and corruption, and the lengths some will go to achieve their goals.

Overall, Law & Order season 5 episode 3, Blue Bamboo, is a thought-provoking episode that explores the complex issues surrounding immigration and human trafficking. The episode is expertly paced, with well-timed revelations that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final moments. The show continues to deliver on its promise of captivating drama and compelling writing, making it a must-watch for crime drama fans.