Ep 10. Snake Lady

In the small, quirky town of Rome, Wisconsin, where bizarre events are a daily occurrence, the Picket Fences police department finds themselves facing yet another peculiar case in Season 1, Episode 10 of "Picket Fences" titled "Snake Lady."

The episode begins with Sheriff Jimmy Brock and his deputies, hardworking Maxine Stewart and ambitious Kenny Lacos, investigating a mysterious disturbance at the residence of Ellen Taper Lehman, known locally as the "Snake Lady." Over the years, Ellen has gained notoriety for keeping an assortment of snakes as pets in her home and running a popular roadside attraction that showcases her unusual pets. However, something unexpected has arisen in her household, and the team aims to get to the bottom of it.

As the deputies arrive at Ellen's residence, they are met with a chaotic scene. The usually calm and collected Snake Lady is in a state of panic. Her prized, rare albino python named Milton has gone missing from its enclosure, leaving Ellen distraught and fearing the worst. The disappearance sparks concern in the community, as Milton's absence may pose a danger to the town's residents if found roaming freely.

Sheriff Brock and his deputies begin their investigation by interviewing Ellen and combing through her snake-filled home for any clues. They meet a fascinating cast of characters, including a snake charm expert named Dr. Khalid Peshuzi, who claims he can communicate with the reptiles. Dr. Peshuzi offers his expertise to the department, hoping to assist in locating Milton and resolving the crisis.

Meanwhile, as the investigation progresses, various townspeople share their opinions on the Snake Lady and the incident. Some believe it is an act of divine intervention, while others suspect foul play. The media picks up on the story, adding fuel to the fire and drawing even more attention to the unusual situation.

As the search for Milton intensifies, secrets about the Snake Lady's personal life begin to surface, shedding light on her intricate relationships with the snakes and those around her. Ellen's deep affection and connection with her pets become evident, making it clear that she would never willingly let harm come to any of them. This revelation leaves the deputies pondering alternative explanations for Milton's disappearance.

While the Snake Lady becomes the center of attention, life in Rome goes on. Other matters demand the police department's attention, including a heated dispute between neighbors over a piece of freshly unearthed dinosaur bone found during a landscaping project. The bone's value and ownership become points of contention, further showcasing the unique situations Picket Fences often finds itself dealing with.

With each passing day, tensions rise as Milton's whereabouts remain unknown. The townspeople grow increasingly worried about the potential danger that a missing python might pose. As the investigation reaches its climax, unexpected twists and turns challenge the team's assumptions, testing their resolve to solve the case.

"Picket Fences" Season 1, Episode 10, "Snake Lady," explores the complexities of human relationships and our innate desire to connect with the extraordinary. It delves into the dynamics of a small town grappling with eccentricities, showcasing the lengths people are willing to go to protect what they hold dear. With a mix of humor, drama, and unexpected surprises, this episode takes viewers on a wild ride through the fascinating world of the Snake Lady and the strange events that unfold in her wake.

Note: The TV show "Picket Fences" ran for four seasons from 1992 to 1996.