Ep 3. Manhattan Manhunt (1) (or Horse Stealing on Fifth Avenue)

McCloud season 1 episode 3, titled Manhattan Manhunt (1) (or Horse Stealing on Fifth Avenue), follows the titular character, Deputy Marshal Sam McCloud (played by Dennis Weaver), as he travels from his home in Taos, New Mexico to New York City, where he has been tasked with escorting a prisoner back to the Southwest.

Upon arriving in Manhattan, McCloud is met by his New York City Police Department counterpart, Detective Chief Peter B. Clifford (played by J.D. Cannon), who agrees to help him with his mission. However, before they can even begin their journey, they become embroiled in a horse theft case that has taken place on Fifth Avenue. The perpetrator is a wealthy socialite, Wendy McKenna (played by Joanna Pettet), who has stolen a valuable racehorse from a rival, Peter Stoddard (played by William Windom), in order to sabotage his chances of winning an upcoming race.

As McCloud and Clifford investigate the case, they uncover a web of deceit and greed that leads them to various members of Manhattan's elite social scene, including a high-end art dealer and a wealthy financier. Along the way, they also encounter a group of young, relentless reporters who are determined to get the scoop on the horse theft story, even if it means putting themselves in danger.

As the investigation deepens, McCloud finds himself drawn to McKenna, despite her obvious guilt in the case. Meanwhile, he also clashes with Clifford, whose by-the-book approach to police work clashes with McCloud's more laidback, intuitive methods.

The episode is filled with action, suspense, and humor, as McCloud and Clifford chase down leads, face off against dangerous criminals, and navigate the complex social hierarchies of Manhattan's elite. With its blend of old west charm and big city grit, McCloud season 1 episode 3 is a thrilling crime drama that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.