Law & Order season 17 episode 17 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Charles Nash, a schoolteacher, is found dead in a burned church, escalating a series of church arsons into a murder investigation. Detectives uncover that Nash's murder was initially blamed on church arsonists Jason Ward and Todd, but evidence points to Jacob Reese, a parent opposing Nash's teachings of evolution at Christian Path Academy. Reese, claiming he acted to protect his daughter from divine retribution, is later revealed to have been misled. His daughter Mary had lied about her relationship with Nash, who was innocent. Reese pleads guilty to all charges.
Full Episode S17E17 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the two main groups represented in the criminal justice system in the show?
The police who investigate crime and the district attorneys who prosecute offenders.
What is the name of the victim found in the church arson?
Charles Nash.
What was Charles Nash's occupation?
He was a schoolteacher.
How many church arsons occurred before the one involving Nash's murder?
Four church arsons occurred before.
What evidence suggests the latest church arson was a copycat?
The use of turpentine instead of gasoline.
Who is Kristin Saunders in relation to Charles Nash?
Kristin Saunders is Charles Nash's girlfriend.
What connection do Jason Ward and Todd have to the church arsons?
They admit to committing previous arsons but deny involvement in Nash's murder.
What is the Christian Path Academy?
It is a non-denominational Christian school where Nash taught.
What was the conflict between Jacob Reese and Charles Nash?
Reese opposed Nash's teaching of evolution and had confrontations over his daughter's grades.
Who is Allison Dale?
A woman with a criminal past who denied a romantic relationship with Nash.
Why was Jacob Reese a suspect in Nash's murder?
Turpentine used in the arson was found at his home, and he had a motive related to Nash's teachings.
What defense does Reese's lawyer use in court?
Reese killed Nash to protect his daughter from divine retribution.
What was revealed about Mary Reese's relationship with Nash?
It was a lie; her guidance counselor, Luke Thornton, had an inappropriate relationship with her.
What led to Jacob Reese's decision to plead guilty?
The revelation that his daughter, Mary, lied about her relationship with Nash.
What was the outcome of the case?
Jacob Reese pleads guilty to all charges.