Ep 18. Stigma

Stigma is the eighteenth episode of the third season of S.W.A.T, an American crime drama television series. The episode aired on May 6, 2020, on CBS. The series follows a specialized tactical unit in Los Angeles tasked with resolving critical incidents that threaten the safety of the city.

In this episode, the team is called in to investigate a series of robberies at cannabis dispensaries. They quickly realize that the dispensaries are all owned by former felon Carl Rollins, who runs a legitimate business selling legal marijuana. Rollins' past criminal record makes him an easy target for suspicion, but Hondo and his team believe that he may be a victim and not a suspect.

As the investigation unfolds, the team must navigate the complexities and stigma of the marijuana industry. They face pushback from their superiors and the communities they serve, who see Rollins' business as a front for illegal activity. Officer Chris Alonso, a rookie on the team, must also confront her personal biases when she discovers that her brother's addiction to painkillers stems from a war injury sustained in combat.

As tensions rise, the team must work together to uncover the truth and protect Rollins from harm. They come face to face with dangerous criminals and vigilantes who seek to take justice into their own hands. Meanwhile, Rollins' relationship with his daughter is strained as she struggles to come to terms with her father's past.

Stigma is a thought-provoking episode that touches on issues of prejudice, discrimination, and the complex nature of the justice system. It highlights the challenges that law enforcement officers face in balancing the needs of their communities with the rights of individuals, especially those who have been stigmatized by society. The episode features powerful performances from the cast, including Shemar Moore as Hondo and Lina Esco as Officer Christina "Chris" Alonso.

Overall, Stigma is an engaging and timely episode that explores important issues with sensitivity and nuance. It is a testament to the quality of the writing and acting on S.W.A.T., which continues to deliver compelling stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. If you are a fan of crime dramas or police procedurals, then Stigma is definitely worth watching.