Law & Order season 4 episode 20 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
A young girl named Wendy, known as "Bughead," goes missing, leading to an investigation that uncovers neglect and abuse in her foster home. The police and district attorneys delve into the lives of those around Wendy, including her indifferent foster mother Beatrice and Beatrice's abusive boyfriend Brian. Suspicion falls on Arnette Fenady, a teacher who once endangered a minor. Wendy is eventually found alive in a hidden basement at Fenady's house. Despite evidence of kidnapping, Fenady is acquitted, controversially applying for Wendy's custody, highlighting the challenges within the child welfare system.
Full Episode S04E20 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Wendy, and why is she referred to as "Bughead"?
Wendy is a young girl known as "Bughead," possibly due to her habit of sticking her head in tailpipes to kill lice.
What is the relationship between Wendy and Beatrice Hines?
Beatrice Hines is Wendy's foster mother.
How does the episode portray Beatrice's attitude towards Wendy's disappearance?
Beatrice appears indifferent and more concerned about her missing towels than Wendy.
Who is Brian, and what is his role in the story?
Brian is Beatrice's boyfriend, accused of abusing Wendy.
What is Arnette Fenady's connection to Wendy?
Arnette Fenady is a teacher who held poetry workshops and becomes a person of interest due to a past incident of endangering a minor and her connection to Wendy.
How is Wendy found?
Wendy is found in a hidden basement in Arnette Fenady's house.
What charges are brought against Arnette Fenady?
Arnette Fenady is charged with kidnapping, custodial interference, and endangering the welfare of a child.
What is Arnette Fenady's defense in the trial?
Fenady claims she was saving Wendy from neglect and abuse, pleading not guilty.
What is the outcome of the trial?
The jury finds Arnette Fenady not guilty on all counts.
Does Arnette Fenady apply for custody of Wendy after the trial?
Yes, Fenady applies for custody of Wendy, raising concerns about her suitability as a guardian.
How does the episode address child welfare and foster care issues?
The episode highlights the complexities and challenges in the child welfare system, including neglect, abuse, and the impact of individual actions on a child's life.
What is the primary setting of the episode?
The episode is set in a city environment, with scenes in residential areas, a police station, and a courtroom.
Are there any significant physical evidence found in the investigation?
Yes, writings and poems by Wendy provide clues leading to her discovery in Fenady's hidden basement.
Is there any mention of Wendy's biological father in the episode?
Wendy's biological father is not known, and there is no significant mention of him in the episode.
How does the community react to Wendy's disappearance and the subsequent trial?
The community shows concern, with people actively participating in the search and expressing varied opinions on Fenady's actions and the trial's outcome.
