This was a very good episode of Law & Order, and displayed the best elements of the show. First, an initial investigation into a woman so terrified of a man chasing her she jumps to her death leads to a connected crime that almost escaped detection. This second crime, an arson, is extremely difficult to prove, and requires a legal genius like Jack McCoy. McCoys passion and brilliance are the greatest part of the entire Law & Order series, and he is at full strength here. He carefully manipulates the criminals into helping the prosecution, and narrowly avoids breaking the law to do so. When we as a society hear of trials in the news, we get the big picture, but do not get to appreciate the diligence and resourcefulness of the attorneys involved. McCoy is such a genius and so shrewd he deserves a show purely about himself. In addition to an elaborate story and masterful handling of the case by McCoy, this episode shows how difficult it is for the police to do their jobs when the public is afraid to cooperate, and a compelling situation where a man must choose between being honest or being loyal to his family. A must see episode.
