Law & Order season 20 episode 21 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

Jerome Turner, a family man struggling financially, is mysteriously murdered with hints of him working as an unlicensed taxi driver. Investigation reveals he was involved in a DNA test

Full Episode S20E21 Recap

### Opening Scene: The Criminal Justice System - The narrator introduces the criminal justice system's two key groups: the police (who investigate crimes) and the district attorneys (who prosecute offenders). - Jerome Turner, a family man, is depicted in his domestic life. He's planning a special trip with his son, Jaden, who has asthma. ### Jerome's Tragic End - Jerome stumbles into a hospital with a severe stab wound and dies. - The police learn he was dropped off by a driver in an old blue car. - Jerome's belongings, including keys to a Ford and about $800 in cash, are noted. ### The Turner Household - Jerome's wife is informed of his death. She mentions financial struggles and her piano lessons. - The Turners don't own a car, despite Jerome having Ford keys in his possession. ### Jerome's Workplace - Jerome's reduced work hours at the bottling plant are revealed. - His financial struggles and determination to return to full-time work are highlighted. ### Investigating Jerome's Movements - Police discover Jerome's unusual movements across the city from his cell phone records. - A lead suggests Jerome might have been working as an unlicensed taxi driver. ### The Mysterious Cab - Jerome's rented cab is found, indicating he was stabbed elsewhere. - The cab owner reveals Jerome's hopes of coming into money. ### Jaden's Involvement - Jaden recalls being taken by his dad to an office where his cheek was swabbed for DNA. ### The DNA Test - Speculation arises that Jerome might have been conducting a paternity test. - The test may have been related to an anticipated financial gain. ### Investigating the Paternity Angle - Police investigate Jerome's last day and the DNA test connection. - Jerome's cousin, Michael Reed, is questioned but denies knowledge of any family disputes. ### Michael Reed's Involvement - Police discover Michael sold a car matching the description of the one used to drop Jerome at the hospital. ### Reed Family Dynamics - The Reed family's history, including connections to Jerome and their financial struggles, are explored. ### The Case Against Michael Reed - Reed is implicated in Jerome's murder due to his actions and the discovery of his mother's car. ### Unraveling the Mystery - A deeper investigation into the Turner and Reed family histories reveals a connection to a lucrative cell line developed from their ancestor's cells. ### The Courtroom Drama - The trial focuses on the ethical and financial implications of using Nathan Robinson's cells without family consent. - Michael Reed's motives and actions are scrutinized. ### The Verdict and Resolution - A settlement is reached, with Hema Labs agreeing to pay $10 million to Nathan Robinson's heirs. - Michael Reed accepts a plea deal, admitting to stabbing Jerome in a fit of anger. ### Conclusion - The case concludes with a focus on the ethical dilemmas surrounding medical research and the exploitation of the Robinson family's genetic legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the key groups in the criminal justice system as introduced in the episode?

The police, who investigate crimes, and the district attorneys, who prosecute offenders.

What domestic issue is highlighted in Jerome Turner's family?

Jerome's son, Jaden, has asthma, and the family is planning a special trip together.

What were Jerome Turner's belongings found at the hospital?

Keys to a Ford, about $800 in cash, his wedding ring, and a watch.

What financial struggles did Jerome Turner's wife mention?

The family had financial struggles, and she contributed by giving piano lessons.

Why is Jerome Turner's work situation at the bottling plant significant?

His reduced work hours and determination to return to full-time work indicate financial pressure.

What leads the police to suspect Jerome might have been working as an unlicensed taxi driver?

Discovery of Jerome's rented cab and his unusual movements across the city on the day of his murder.

What did Jerome's son, Jaden, recall about the day of the murder?

He was taken by his dad to an office where his cheek was swabbed for DNA.

What is the significance of the DNA test in the investigation?

It suggests a possible paternity test and a connection to Jerome's anticipated financial gain.

How is Michael Reed connected to the murder?

He sold a car matching the description of the one used to drop Jerome at the hospital and is implicated due to his actions.

What resolution is reached in the courtroom?

Hema Labs agrees to pay $10 million to Nathan Robinson's heirs, and Michael Reed accepts a plea deal for stabbing Jerome.

Law & Order season 20 episode 21

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