Ep 20. The Last Yard/Root of All Evil

The First 48 season 7 episode 20, titled The Last Yard/Root of All Evil, follows homicide detectives from various cities as they race against the clock to solve murders. The episode is divided into two cases, each with its own unique twists and turns.

In The Last Yard case, detectives in Birmingham, Alabama are called to investigate the murder of a man found dead in his own yard. The victim, Clayton Beasley, was a local football coach who was well-respected in his community. His death shocks the community, and the detectives must work quickly to bring his killer to justice.

As the investigation begins, the detectives soon discover that Clayton was not just a beloved coach, but also a drug dealer. They learn that he had recently gotten out of prison and was trying to turn his life around, but had gotten caught up in selling drugs to make ends meet. With multiple suspects and a possible motive tied to his drug dealing, the detectives know they have their work cut out for them.

As the investigation progresses, the detectives narrow down their list of suspects and start to piece together a timeline of events leading up to Clayton's murder. They use forensics and interviews to gather evidence and eventually make an arrest. But when the case goes to trial, the defense tries to discredit the detectives' evidence, leading to a tense courtroom showdown.

Meanwhile, in the Root of All Evil case, detectives in Cincinnati, Ohio are called to investigate the murder of two young men in a quiet neighborhood. The victims, Chevilla Marks and Gregory Clark, were childhood friends who had recently moved to the area. Their murders shock the community, and the detectives must move quickly to find the killer before they strike again.

The investigation takes a dramatic turn when the detectives learn that Chevilla and Gregory were killed over a dispute involving a drug dealer known as "Root." As they dig deeper, they discover a web of drug use and violence, and start to unravel the complex and dangerous world of street crime.

Working around the clock, the detectives gather evidence and identify the suspects. They use interviews and surveillance to track down "Root" and his accomplices, and eventually make arrests. But as the case heads to trial, the detectives face a new challenge as the suspects try to turn on each other in an effort to save themselves.

Overall, The First 48 season 7 episode 20 is a gripping episode that showcases the intense and often dangerous work of homicide detectives. With two complex cases, viewers are taken on a thrilling ride as the detectives race against time to solve these murders and bring justice to the victims and their families.