Conviction (2006) s01e01 Episode Script
Pilot
You're really gonna do it, huh ? I need a change.
What can I say ? Change is picking Nantucket over East Hampton.
It's not throwing your life away.
One more time, why are we friends ? Is it the detached alcoholic parents ? The same prep school You know what, when you come to your senses, give me a ring.
I'll have a real job waiting for you at Harper-Cooney.
Where are you going ? I'm tired.
Well, what about Vanessa ? I have a big day tomorrow.
What're you doing ? - Oh, I thought I had set my alarm, but - Sorry.
I turned it off.
- What ? - I hate clocks.
Well, I have an important meeting today, so.
Blow it off.
I can't.
Come on, Nick.
Crawl back into bed.
We'll have some fun.
Uh just let yourself out, okay ? - Deputy Bureau Chief Mike Randolph ? - Right there.
Nice, you got a trial.
Finally.
Need any help, Christina, I'm 23-0.
Undefeated, baby.
You get Judge Harrigan ? Yeah, why ? That's a nightmare, that's why.
Ex-legal aid lawyer.
Harrigan's fine.
Relax.
He's a misogynistic ex-D.
A.
, prick, but he's fair.
Loser.
So was she hot ? Um, no comment.
Guess that's a no.
Mike Randolph ? Who are you ? Nick Potter.
- I'm supposed to ha - Can't, sorry.
Just talk to Jim Steele, he's the other Deputy.
A year at Cromwell Moore.
How'd you get that ? Excuse me ? Middle of the class at NYU.
Don't buy it.
I'm not sure what you're asking me.
You know exactly what I'm asking you, Nick.
Well, my father knows the managing partner.
Ah.
Who's your dad know here ? The District Attorney.
- But he didn't - When did you finish the training program ? Yesterday.
And it was great, interesting.
Informative.
Eh, it's a bunch of crap.
But interesting and informative crap, don't you think ? Okay.
You're pulled over for drunk driving, do you show the cop your D.
A.
badge ? Well, I wouldn't drive drunk.
You're drunk.
Do you show the badge or not ? Yes, but not to beat the arrest.
Really ? Then why ? That police officer would see me in court the next morning.
And I wouldn't want to embarrass him.
It's important to maintain a productive relationship with the police department So what is it, Nick ? You bored ? Looking for something to talk about at cocktail parties ? Excuse me ? Why does a guy like you wanna work here ? I wanna try cases.
Whether you believe it or not, that's the reason why I'm here.
So are-are we finished ? Take Lefkowitz's desk.
Now ? Now.
Great.
Thanks.
Is that your daughter ? No, murder victim.
I'm-I'm sorry.
- I didn't realize - Take Lefkowitz's desk.
He tooks us from club and paid for our hotel.
And we wanted to stay in Costa Rica longer, and they- picked up the tab and turned you into drug mules.
I didn't swallow any drugs.
I already told you that.
But your friend Jane did.
Yeah, she thought it would be an easy way to pay these guys off, and that it might be fun.
So what happened in the motel ? Jane was sick from the drugs, and he just kept screaming at her.
He ? The guy you identified in the photo array ? Lalo Escobar ? Yeah.
Him.
And he just took out this knife.
He cut into her stomach.
Uh, Your Honor, Miss Kellner's videotaped statement should be admissible as an exception to the hearsay rule.
If the people want her testimony, they can call her to the stand.
I can't cross-examine a videotape.
I agree with Mr.
Gilman.
Your Honor, given the horrific facts of this case, I mean, Miss Kellner's obviously terrified- The video is not coming in, Mr.
Randolph.
I will see you both tomorrow morning.
So how are we gonna get Kellner on the stand ? Well, she saw her best friend gutted in the bathtub.
Facing the killer in court's not gonna be so easy.
Arrest her.
There's no proof she committed a crime.
Find some.
Couple nights in Rikers.
She'll sing bel canto.
Well, her song won't be so sweet if her credibility is shot to hell over some half-assed arrest.
Fine, do it your way, Mike, but get her on the stand.
I've got the eighth floor all over me.
Today is my first day, so- Jessie around ? Uh, who ? Jessica Rossi.
This is her office.
Oh, I just started so- Hey.
What the hell are you doing here ? I'm just, I'm in a little bit of a jam.
This guy I work with owes me three grand, - so I'll definitely be able to pay you back - Forget it.
- I only need like $500.
- I said forget it.
Bitch.
Tell Mom I can't make dinner on Sunday.
Nick Potter.
I just started.
Jessica Rossi.
- James Steele told me to take Lefkowitz's desk- - Oh, he goes by Jim.
Right.
Jim.
Seems like a nice guy.
You got some time ? Yeah, sure.
What's your name again ? Potter.
Nick Potter.
Come with me.
Leslie Fritz.
Who ? She's downstairs at security.
I don't know who that is.
Well, she told me to tell you if you didn't remember her name, she's the skinny chick with the octopus tattoo from last night.
Sure.
Leslie.
You left your D.
A.
badge in her bed.
Okay.
Do me a favor, grab the badge and tell her that I am in a meeting.
- Thanks for the call, dog.
- Told you I'd get you something good.
So our friend stops by to say hello to his ex-girlfriend, but of course, he's just looking for a little make-up sex.
She's not in the mood, he punches her in the face, five six times, then just for kicks, he smacks her around a little bit more.
Where's the vic ? A.
D.
A.
Desmond, if you need anything.
- We're okay for now.
- Search warrant, a subpoena, anything.
We're doing okay.
She speak English ? Yes.
I assure you, Miss, the man who did this will be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
Don't bother with ECAB, just come straight to my office, I'll process the complaint.
Sounds good to me.
I'll hook up those Knicks-Lakers tickets next week.
I read about this.
College girls vacationing in Costa Rica.
Jane Ritchie swallowed 12 condoms filled with coke.
One of 'em broke and she started overdosing.
This guy Escobar didn't wanna lose his blow, so he cuts open her small intestine.
- Luckily, Kellner was able to escape.
- Now, track down the witnesses.
I wanna make sure their stories haven't changed.
Randolph.
Now ? Okay.
Get this stuff down.
Jane's parents are on their way up.
Officer Kelly, sorry to keep you waiting.
We just got finished picking the jury.
You didn't plead him out ? I appreciate your efforts, counselor, but this case is strictly N.
H.
I.
Was No Humans Involved.
It's scum dealing drugs to scum, you know.
A less enlightened guy might say, who cares ? Let's go to Rikers first.
We'll miss the outgoing traffic.
Victim's parents.
Randolph's a pro.
Treats people like people.
Escobar said he pulled 20 condoms out of her gut.
You heard him say that.
Not 20, 12.
Better not try to mess me up, Sweetie.
Well, it's important that your testimony is consistent with your previous statement.
Let's talk about my transfer.
You need to testify first.
But like I said, we'll give you protective custody.
Punk city ? No, thank you, Sweetie.
I need a weight room, baby.
I gotta be hard when you come and visit me.
Visit you where, the morgue ? I don't scare.
Soy machote, bitch.
Escobar bragged he'd kill witnesses, D.
A.
's, whatever.
So you'll sit in Punk City and watch Oprah until we call you to the stand.
You being dead won't help us.
Miss Finn ? Max Breitman.
I represent Toby James.
Yes, how do you do ? What do you say we plead out this littltle drug case ? Your client has 15 priors.
Only two convictions.
That should tell you something.
I'm trying this case.
My man just tryin' to save your ass, baby ! Come on, let's get some eggs.
Eggs? It's 4:00 in the afternoon.
What, is it some kind of white man ritual? I want some spaghetti.
I'm calling you to the stand, Bridget, no matter what.
Then I will lie.
I will say that I don't remember what happened, or that Escobar didn't do it.
I prefer not to arrest you, Bridget, but if you don't cooper- I didn't do anything wrong.
You helped Jane smuggle cocaine through customs.
- You were at the motel the night that she was killed.
- I was trying to protect her.
She didn't wanna go alone.
This man murdered your best friend.
You really wanna go through life knowing that you helped him get away with it ? You wanna live with that guilt ? That shame ? Don't let him ruin your life too.
No, I can't ! I just- He'll kill me.
Call Detective Ryan.
Just get her a ride home.
Potter.
Now, make sure that we've got people watching her 24/7.
I wanna make sure we keep this kid alive.
Hey, hey, hey.
Do you understand ? Yeah, yeah.
Ladies and gentlemen, you are about to leap intothe- into the throat of the American justice system.
Throat ? No.
Um, good morning, folks.
I'm A.
D.
A.
Finn.
I've-no.
What're you, a kindergarten teacher ? Gosh.
On September 9th, the defendant sold 18 rocks of crack cocaine to an undercover police officer.
That's perfect.
It's perfect.
Nervous ? I'm not sure I'm ready.
No, you've been ready for more than a year.
Mmm, we'll see.
No, you'll be fine.
You know, just take a couple deep breaths.
Picture the judge naked.
And open your case, you know ? When's the Escobar trial ? Five minutes.
Good luck.
On August 9th, the defendant, Lalo Escobar, picked up Jane Ritchie at Kennedy Airport.
Drove her to a motel on 134th street.
One of the drug-filled condoms that she had swallowed broke in her stomach,and she began to overdose.
Rather than help her, the defendant grabbed a 7-inch hunting knife, cut open her abdomen, and retrieved the cocaine from her small intestine.
- I went to the scene, talked to the victim, the cops - You've been here, what, like three years, Desmond ? Hand it off to Peluso.
I've tried 15 felonies.
The Ds and the Es are different from the As and the Bs.
I need somebody with experience, pal.
Peluso's a good guy.
And a good lawyer.
I know, but he's got a full plate.
So ? So why don't you let me do all the work and have him supervise me ? All right, but I want Peluso in the loop on every motion and every witness.
You got it.
- Officer Kelly, you were patrolling Tompkins Square Park - Sustained.
- On September 9th of this year, you were working - Sustained.
- You were assigned - Sustained.
But Your Honor, no one's objecting.
I am.
Johnny ? Can't lead witnesses on direct.
I know.
I was just-thank you.
Officer Kelly, where were you working on September 9th ? There you go.
At Tompkins Square Park.
While working at Tompkins Square Park that day, did you happen to see anything unusual ? Yeah, I saw him sell 18 rocks of crack cocaine to a male Hispanic, 20-25.
- Did you chase after the de - Sustained.
Johnny.
Just say, "What happened next ?" What happened next ? I ran after the defendant, I announced that I was a police officer, and I arrested him.
What happened next ? I found 40 vials of crack and $320 in cash in his backpack.
Nothing further.
How much do you weigh ? Excuse me ? If you were gonna step on a scale, where would the dial stop ? Objection.
Relevance ? Sustained.
Have you ever run 100 yards without stopping ? Objection.
Relevance ? Overruled.
Answer the question.
Yeah, I've run 100 yards.
Oh, when ? I don't know.
A while ago.
Nothing further.
Why are you always late ? Okay, let's start over.
- What sounds good ? Thai ? Japanese ? - Japanese.
LoLook, I know I screwed up when we were dating.
I admit it.
- Brian - I would really like to give this another shot if you're open to it.
It feels a little soon.
Better than a little late.
What does that mean ? I have no idea.
I need more time.
Okay ? You seeing someone ? Of course not.
- Just asking.
- You ? No.
I still- You know how I feel about you.
How do you get out of jury duty ? My friend just started at Goldman.
She doesn't wanna miss two weeks of work.
Look, I would love to help, but it would be unethical of me to respond to such questions during business hours.
However, if we were someplace else, like a quaint Italian café.
- Brian - Tonight, 8:00, Il Cantinori.
I'm meeting my parents up in Westport.
Fine.
8:30, Gorgione.
Mr.
Breitman had a personal issue arise.
We're adjourned until tomorrow, 9:30.
You didn't leave your evidence on the table during lunch ? Yes or no, Miss Finn ? Yes, I didn't know How long have you been here ? A little more than two years.
And you're not smart enough to figure out that leaving drugs unattended in a building filled with criminals is a bad idea ? That it destroys the chain of custody ? I'm sorry.
This is my first trial.
- You don't say.
- I apologize.
I assume your evidence is intact.
See you tomorrow.
Yeah, I'll call you back as soon as I take a look at it.
- Cheers.
- Talk to Steele, right ? - Yeah, congrats.
- Look over the file ? Interview the victim yet ? She's in my office as we speak.
- You want me to sit in ? - For what ? I'm just asking.
Look, man, I know Steele told you to oversee this, but I can handle it.
Look, it's all yours, cowboy.
Just let me know what's going on from time to time in case Steele asks.
You have any trouble getting a restraining order ? What's that ? You got a restraining order against the ex-boyfriend, right ? Of course.
First thing I did.
Gloria, how're you doing today ? I'm okay.
First thing we need to do is get a restraining order against that ex-boyfriend of yours.
You were at the Suncrest Motel with a male prostitute, correct ? - Yes.
- Were you drinking ? - No.
- Doing drugs ? No.
So you just walked into a room with a 19-year-old stranger, said hello, and had sex ? - I'm not sure I said hello, but yes, something like that.
- Nothing further.
Did having sex with a prostitute affect your vision, Professor ? No.
Did it affect your ability to identify the defendant's car you saw screeching out of the parking lot on the day Jane Ritchie was murdered ? No.
- Nothing further.
- That's it for today.
Jury may be excused.
I want you to summarize all medical records as soon as possible.
Sure, right away.
We'll talk more about it over dinner.
Chinese sound good ? Yeah.
Sure.
I just Googled the defense expert, Dr.
Jackson, the guy who's supposed to say Jane Ritchie died of a drug overdose.
And ? He got his privileges suspended two years ago from East Side Hospital.
Tell Mike at dinner.
Did you plead out that basketball fight yet ? No, the defendant's a real punk.
I might take it to trial.
We talked about this.
Things have changed.
I don't care.
Plead it out.
I'll be right back.
Excuse me, Jim ? Nick Potter.
Good, how are you, Detective ? Sure.
In Chinatown.
A place called Yang Chow.
Hey, Lisa, where are you ? No, I I thought it was definite.
Yeah, maybe, uh, we can do something this weekend.
Good.
So how much were you making at that Cromwell place ? Oh, about $150,000.
As a first-year ? Yeah, crazy, right ? And now you're here.
Let me guess.
You weren't self-actualizing.
Something like that.
So this is your true calling ? Prosecuting the disenfranchised for 51 grand a year ? I hope so.
But you're not sure ? Am I on the witness stand or something ? So that's a no.
It's a maybe.
But not a yes.
This how you talk to your boyfriend ? I don't have one.
But if I did, probably.
Call an ambulance.
Now ! Mike ! Mike ! Oh, my God.
Mike ! It's gonna be okay.
Everything's gonna be okay.
Hang in there.
Send an ambulance right away to, uh, 28 Mott Street.
A man-uh, District Attorney's been shot.
Mike ! Look at me ! Look at me.
Look at me, Mike.
Look at me.
Okay, okay, okay, okay ! All right.
I'll tell you how much at for a statement from District Attorney Arthur Branch.
A.
D.
A.
Mike Randolph was pronounced dead at 8:05 this morning.
Though we have no suspects in custody at the moment, let me assure you, let me promise you, that we will solve this case.
This is a sad day for the city.
Today we mourn the loss of a great lawyer, and a wonderful friend.
Mike Randolph was a man of profound integrity, who served his community proudly for the last 20 years.
He devoted his life to fighting crime and now he has paid the ultimate price.
Hey, did you talk to the eighth floor ? Yeah, Branch wants to proceed with the trial.
Show of strength.
- All that.
- Let me guess, his boy Jack Berwyn's taking over.
- Well, I told Arthur that - I worked with Randolph for ten years, okay.
I was an usher at his wedding, no one living knows this case better than I do.
Which is why I convinced Branch to give it to you.
So it's mine ? Yes.
All right.
Don't disappoint me.
I think you know me better than that.
Christina ? Oh, what's wrong ? Here.
- I know it's tough, but - I just I can't believe he's dead.
And that after- rather than just deal with this, with Mike- I have to worry about some asshole judge dismissing my case- - What do you mean dismissing your case ? - I lost my evidence.
You what ? Judge Harrigan wants to see you in chambers right away.
Huh.
Where have you been ? I'm sorry, I didn't think we were gonna be in session today, but since we are, I have to disclose that- We're on for 11:00.
Pull yourself together and get ready for trial.
Take this with you.
Is-is that- To leave evidence unattended is an insult to me, this court, the defendant.
If it happens again,I'll call your supervisor and have you fired.
I understand.
Mike Randolph was a hell of a good guy.
Yeah.
Yeah, that's him right there, he framed me.
- Officer Kelly ? - That's right.
He handcuffed me, knocked me down, and stuffed those drugs right down my pants.
First man's hands that've been down there too.
I swear on the Holy Bible.
Why would officer Kelly plant drugs on you ? Well, because he hates me.
Hates you, why ? Because I'm on the corner minding my own business.
And I see this brother, right ? And he's running.
Graceful.
And then I hear this, like, big huffing and puffing sound.
You know, like one of those rhinos on one of them animal shows.
And it's him.
Fat ass.
Officer Kelly ? He's chasing the brother.
And I yell, Yo, Fatso ! Maybe you should stop eating those Krispy Kremes and drink a Slim Fast here and there.
Maybe you'll be able to catch little homie.
Because you made fun of him, Officer Kelly framed you.
Is that what you're saying ? Yeah, and then he falls on the grease behind Eddie, the kabob man, and start-and I start laughing.
The fat ass gets mad, and comes after me ! Objection, to the defendant's usage of the term, "fat ass" .
As perspective jurors, it's important to identify any potential conflict.
So if any of you know the defendant, any member of the defense team, the prosecution team- Excuse me, my name is Jack Brady.
I know the prosecutor, Brian Peluso.
I should've said I know of you.
You know "of me" ? I've been dating Lisa for the past two months.
I assume you know Lisa, Mr.
Peluso.
Uh sure.
We, um we used to date, but that, uh it's been over for a while, no big deal.
Well, I thought it made sense to bring it up.
Since I've heard so much about you, it'd be hard for me to be impartial.
That makes sense.
So, I'm excused ? Yes.
Nice meeting you, Brian.
Yeah, make sure you say hi to Lisa for me.
My ex-wife dumped me five years ago.
Um, with all due respect, Your Honor, th-this is kind of different,because I, you know, I- I broke it off with her.
Right.
Truth is, I-I wasn't ready to commit.
No worries, son.
You'll be fine.
Gloria.
Hey, come on in.
Is everything okay ? - I need your help.
- Sure, what's up ? My cousin lent me $10,000 to help bail out Luis.
Excuse me ? I didn't know who I'm supposed to give the money to.
You wanna bail out the guy who attacked you ? Yeah.
I love him.
We just got a restraining order, Gloria, remember ? You signed it.
This is not a very good idea, Gloria, however you feel about Luis.
I love him.
You might think you do.
We're getting married d next week.
Gloria, that doesn't make sense.
Uh, who do I give the money to ? I'm done asking for favors, Mr.
Kellner.
Done hoping that Bridget does the right thing.
- Done ? You weren't even involved until this morning.
- That's because my friend was alive until this morning.
We know this is an emotional case, Jim, in light of recent events.
- However, that doesn't change - If Bridget doesn't cooperate, I'm indicting her on felony drug conspiracy.
Tonight, and tomorrow we'll begin building a felony murder case against her.
- Murder, what the hell ar - You have no evidence that will be admitted, Jim.
I'll get there.
Believe me.
Yes or no, Bridget.
You son of a bitch.
Last chance, yes or no.
Terry ? Arrest her.
Felony drug conspiracy.
This is ridiculous, Jim.
Daddy ! Put your hands behind your back, please.
All right, all right, wait.
Fine.
She'll testify.
No, they'll kill me ! We'll protect you, you have my word on that.
Protect her ? D.
A.
was just gunned down.
How are you going to protect her ? No, no, no, I have to protect her.
Fine, but she still has to tell the truth.
You gonna do that ? Yes ! Let her go.
When we adjourned, I remember Mike said something like, we'll talk more at dinner.
You think Escobar might've heard Randolph say that ? I don't know.
Maybe.
Well, did Randolph say where you were having dinner ? He just said Chinese.
Well, who else knew that you were having dinner at Yang Chow ? No one.
That's it ? Just you two ? Mmm-hmm.
If you think of anything else, give us a call right away, okay ? What is it ? I think I might've screwed up.
- Nick, I really don't have time - I got a call from someone named Detective Sullivan.
- What're you talking about.
- This guy Detective Sullivan.
Said he was working with Randolph.
And that he might stop by the restaurant last night.
So I told him where we were eating.
You told some guy that you've never met before where Randolph was having dinner, just like that.
No questions asked.
- I wasn't thinking I just - Call Detective Berner right away.
I'm-I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to- I- maybe I should just- Just what ? Quit.
If that's what you want.
There is no question, that the defendant by virtue of his charmand humor and eloquence, was able to diminish the serious nature of the crime with which he's been charged.
I mean, let's face it.
He was funny.
He made you laugh.
He was, in a word, entertaining.
But picture him in a different setting.
The street.
A place where he deploys his humor and his charm and his eloquence to entice naive children to experiment with crack.
The poison that he sells.
The poison that decimates so many promising lives.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is not funny.
- Hey.
- Hey.
You read through my interview notes, right ? Yeah, she wants to marry the guy who raped her.
Makes a lot of sense, actually.
Let's 'em argue marital privilege.
And makes it impossible for us to win the case.
Is that a white flag you're waving ? All I'm saying is we should plead them out to aggravated assault.
Oh, come on, Billy, the guy raped her.
We can't prove it.
- So you wanna roll like a bitch at the first sign of trouble ? - It ain't rolling if you can't win.
That how you stay undefeated ? By pleading out anything with a little hair on it ? I like to try cases I can win.
You know, why don't I just take the case off your hands.
If that's what you want.
That's what you want.
That's why you came in here in the first place, right ? To dump the case.
I'm happy to stay involved, Brian.
Yeah, as long as we win, right ? Hey, you here to quit or work ? Work.
You sure ? Positive.
Good, grab Rossi and come with me.
After Kellner testifies, I'm calling the medical experts, so I'll need the slides ready to go.
What the hell's going on ? - We've been trying to find you.
- You got an adjournment without talking to me ? Escobar's lawyer wants to make a deal.
Of course he does, he read the witness list, realized that Kellner was ready to testify- I'm willing to risk a mistrial, Jim, or an acquittal, because some juror is pissing in his pants.
- For God's sake, Alexandra - Think about the jury.
They already know a D.
A.
was murdered.
Escobar needs to go down for murder two, life without parole.
We offer 20 to life and keep parole on the table, Escobar will bite.
He buys a beanie and reads the Koran, he'll be out when he's 47.
- It's the right move.
- The guy had Mike murdered.
That is not relevant to this case.
Not-not relevant.
What do you mean ? What do you mean not relevant ? Jane Ritchie's parents are on their way over here right now.
After we are done talking to them, you are going to go to Rikers, and you are going to make a deal.
This conversation is over.
We believe that pleading Escobar out to murder two is clearly the best resolution to a very difficult situation.
The risk of a mistrial, even an acquittal, is significant.
Right, good.
So Escobar, he'll be in jail for the rest of his life, right ? He will be eligible for parole, but not for 20 years.
20 years ? That's not good enough.
I won't accept that.
- I know that this is difficult to comprehend - You don't know a damn thing.
This animal cut open my little girl like a lamb for the slaughter.
And you're telling me he's gonna be released from prison someday ? Is that what you're telling me ? It's possible, yes.
A coward.
This guy not only killed my daughter, he murdered your friend, and now you're cutting him a break ? Don't ever sell me out like that again.
Hey, you okay ? Yeah.
Get a verdict yet ? I lost my first case too.
I won.
You won ? I still can't believe it.
Oh, congratulations.
Victory flowers.
Oh, thanks.
You shouldn't have done that.
Oh, they're from Mike.
He told me to buy you flowers, the second the verdict came in, win or lose.
Oh, that's To Mike Randolph.
To Mike ! Hey, hey, hey, you stop by the ATM ? I'm gonna take care of you tomorrow, okay ? Yeah.
Mmm, thanks.
I ever tell you how hot you are ? I ever tell you how much I hate guys who use the word hot ? More than white boys who say, "peace out" ? You're better off without her, I promise.
The truth is she should've dumped me six months ago.
Good, then you should come dancing with us.
Finny, you see me dance, it's over.
Oh, that good ? That bad.
I'm very forgiving.
You okay ? Yeah, I'm fine.
We have an office pool.
The over-under on you is three months.
Take the over.
I already did.
Oh, dammit.
What ? It's late.
I'll get you a car.
You don't make enough money.
Okay, a cab.
You could just spend the night.
Uh-uh, we don't wanna break our vows.
What can I say ? Change is picking Nantucket over East Hampton.
It's not throwing your life away.
One more time, why are we friends ? Is it the detached alcoholic parents ? The same prep school You know what, when you come to your senses, give me a ring.
I'll have a real job waiting for you at Harper-Cooney.
Where are you going ? I'm tired.
Well, what about Vanessa ? I have a big day tomorrow.
What're you doing ? - Oh, I thought I had set my alarm, but - Sorry.
I turned it off.
- What ? - I hate clocks.
Well, I have an important meeting today, so.
Blow it off.
I can't.
Come on, Nick.
Crawl back into bed.
We'll have some fun.
Uh just let yourself out, okay ? - Deputy Bureau Chief Mike Randolph ? - Right there.
Nice, you got a trial.
Finally.
Need any help, Christina, I'm 23-0.
Undefeated, baby.
You get Judge Harrigan ? Yeah, why ? That's a nightmare, that's why.
Ex-legal aid lawyer.
Harrigan's fine.
Relax.
He's a misogynistic ex-D.
A.
, prick, but he's fair.
Loser.
So was she hot ? Um, no comment.
Guess that's a no.
Mike Randolph ? Who are you ? Nick Potter.
- I'm supposed to ha - Can't, sorry.
Just talk to Jim Steele, he's the other Deputy.
A year at Cromwell Moore.
How'd you get that ? Excuse me ? Middle of the class at NYU.
Don't buy it.
I'm not sure what you're asking me.
You know exactly what I'm asking you, Nick.
Well, my father knows the managing partner.
Ah.
Who's your dad know here ? The District Attorney.
- But he didn't - When did you finish the training program ? Yesterday.
And it was great, interesting.
Informative.
Eh, it's a bunch of crap.
But interesting and informative crap, don't you think ? Okay.
You're pulled over for drunk driving, do you show the cop your D.
A.
badge ? Well, I wouldn't drive drunk.
You're drunk.
Do you show the badge or not ? Yes, but not to beat the arrest.
Really ? Then why ? That police officer would see me in court the next morning.
And I wouldn't want to embarrass him.
It's important to maintain a productive relationship with the police department So what is it, Nick ? You bored ? Looking for something to talk about at cocktail parties ? Excuse me ? Why does a guy like you wanna work here ? I wanna try cases.
Whether you believe it or not, that's the reason why I'm here.
So are-are we finished ? Take Lefkowitz's desk.
Now ? Now.
Great.
Thanks.
Is that your daughter ? No, murder victim.
I'm-I'm sorry.
- I didn't realize - Take Lefkowitz's desk.
He tooks us from club and paid for our hotel.
And we wanted to stay in Costa Rica longer, and they- picked up the tab and turned you into drug mules.
I didn't swallow any drugs.
I already told you that.
But your friend Jane did.
Yeah, she thought it would be an easy way to pay these guys off, and that it might be fun.
So what happened in the motel ? Jane was sick from the drugs, and he just kept screaming at her.
He ? The guy you identified in the photo array ? Lalo Escobar ? Yeah.
Him.
And he just took out this knife.
He cut into her stomach.
Uh, Your Honor, Miss Kellner's videotaped statement should be admissible as an exception to the hearsay rule.
If the people want her testimony, they can call her to the stand.
I can't cross-examine a videotape.
I agree with Mr.
Gilman.
Your Honor, given the horrific facts of this case, I mean, Miss Kellner's obviously terrified- The video is not coming in, Mr.
Randolph.
I will see you both tomorrow morning.
So how are we gonna get Kellner on the stand ? Well, she saw her best friend gutted in the bathtub.
Facing the killer in court's not gonna be so easy.
Arrest her.
There's no proof she committed a crime.
Find some.
Couple nights in Rikers.
She'll sing bel canto.
Well, her song won't be so sweet if her credibility is shot to hell over some half-assed arrest.
Fine, do it your way, Mike, but get her on the stand.
I've got the eighth floor all over me.
Today is my first day, so- Jessie around ? Uh, who ? Jessica Rossi.
This is her office.
Oh, I just started so- Hey.
What the hell are you doing here ? I'm just, I'm in a little bit of a jam.
This guy I work with owes me three grand, - so I'll definitely be able to pay you back - Forget it.
- I only need like $500.
- I said forget it.
Bitch.
Tell Mom I can't make dinner on Sunday.
Nick Potter.
I just started.
Jessica Rossi.
- James Steele told me to take Lefkowitz's desk- - Oh, he goes by Jim.
Right.
Jim.
Seems like a nice guy.
You got some time ? Yeah, sure.
What's your name again ? Potter.
Nick Potter.
Come with me.
Leslie Fritz.
Who ? She's downstairs at security.
I don't know who that is.
Well, she told me to tell you if you didn't remember her name, she's the skinny chick with the octopus tattoo from last night.
Sure.
Leslie.
You left your D.
A.
badge in her bed.
Okay.
Do me a favor, grab the badge and tell her that I am in a meeting.
- Thanks for the call, dog.
- Told you I'd get you something good.
So our friend stops by to say hello to his ex-girlfriend, but of course, he's just looking for a little make-up sex.
She's not in the mood, he punches her in the face, five six times, then just for kicks, he smacks her around a little bit more.
Where's the vic ? A.
D.
A.
Desmond, if you need anything.
- We're okay for now.
- Search warrant, a subpoena, anything.
We're doing okay.
She speak English ? Yes.
I assure you, Miss, the man who did this will be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
Don't bother with ECAB, just come straight to my office, I'll process the complaint.
Sounds good to me.
I'll hook up those Knicks-Lakers tickets next week.
I read about this.
College girls vacationing in Costa Rica.
Jane Ritchie swallowed 12 condoms filled with coke.
One of 'em broke and she started overdosing.
This guy Escobar didn't wanna lose his blow, so he cuts open her small intestine.
- Luckily, Kellner was able to escape.
- Now, track down the witnesses.
I wanna make sure their stories haven't changed.
Randolph.
Now ? Okay.
Get this stuff down.
Jane's parents are on their way up.
Officer Kelly, sorry to keep you waiting.
We just got finished picking the jury.
You didn't plead him out ? I appreciate your efforts, counselor, but this case is strictly N.
H.
I.
Was No Humans Involved.
It's scum dealing drugs to scum, you know.
A less enlightened guy might say, who cares ? Let's go to Rikers first.
We'll miss the outgoing traffic.
Victim's parents.
Randolph's a pro.
Treats people like people.
Escobar said he pulled 20 condoms out of her gut.
You heard him say that.
Not 20, 12.
Better not try to mess me up, Sweetie.
Well, it's important that your testimony is consistent with your previous statement.
Let's talk about my transfer.
You need to testify first.
But like I said, we'll give you protective custody.
Punk city ? No, thank you, Sweetie.
I need a weight room, baby.
I gotta be hard when you come and visit me.
Visit you where, the morgue ? I don't scare.
Soy machote, bitch.
Escobar bragged he'd kill witnesses, D.
A.
's, whatever.
So you'll sit in Punk City and watch Oprah until we call you to the stand.
You being dead won't help us.
Miss Finn ? Max Breitman.
I represent Toby James.
Yes, how do you do ? What do you say we plead out this littltle drug case ? Your client has 15 priors.
Only two convictions.
That should tell you something.
I'm trying this case.
My man just tryin' to save your ass, baby ! Come on, let's get some eggs.
Eggs? It's 4:00 in the afternoon.
What, is it some kind of white man ritual? I want some spaghetti.
I'm calling you to the stand, Bridget, no matter what.
Then I will lie.
I will say that I don't remember what happened, or that Escobar didn't do it.
I prefer not to arrest you, Bridget, but if you don't cooper- I didn't do anything wrong.
You helped Jane smuggle cocaine through customs.
- You were at the motel the night that she was killed.
- I was trying to protect her.
She didn't wanna go alone.
This man murdered your best friend.
You really wanna go through life knowing that you helped him get away with it ? You wanna live with that guilt ? That shame ? Don't let him ruin your life too.
No, I can't ! I just- He'll kill me.
Call Detective Ryan.
Just get her a ride home.
Potter.
Now, make sure that we've got people watching her 24/7.
I wanna make sure we keep this kid alive.
Hey, hey, hey.
Do you understand ? Yeah, yeah.
Ladies and gentlemen, you are about to leap intothe- into the throat of the American justice system.
Throat ? No.
Um, good morning, folks.
I'm A.
D.
A.
Finn.
I've-no.
What're you, a kindergarten teacher ? Gosh.
On September 9th, the defendant sold 18 rocks of crack cocaine to an undercover police officer.
That's perfect.
It's perfect.
Nervous ? I'm not sure I'm ready.
No, you've been ready for more than a year.
Mmm, we'll see.
No, you'll be fine.
You know, just take a couple deep breaths.
Picture the judge naked.
And open your case, you know ? When's the Escobar trial ? Five minutes.
Good luck.
On August 9th, the defendant, Lalo Escobar, picked up Jane Ritchie at Kennedy Airport.
Drove her to a motel on 134th street.
One of the drug-filled condoms that she had swallowed broke in her stomach,and she began to overdose.
Rather than help her, the defendant grabbed a 7-inch hunting knife, cut open her abdomen, and retrieved the cocaine from her small intestine.
- I went to the scene, talked to the victim, the cops - You've been here, what, like three years, Desmond ? Hand it off to Peluso.
I've tried 15 felonies.
The Ds and the Es are different from the As and the Bs.
I need somebody with experience, pal.
Peluso's a good guy.
And a good lawyer.
I know, but he's got a full plate.
So ? So why don't you let me do all the work and have him supervise me ? All right, but I want Peluso in the loop on every motion and every witness.
You got it.
- Officer Kelly, you were patrolling Tompkins Square Park - Sustained.
- On September 9th of this year, you were working - Sustained.
- You were assigned - Sustained.
But Your Honor, no one's objecting.
I am.
Johnny ? Can't lead witnesses on direct.
I know.
I was just-thank you.
Officer Kelly, where were you working on September 9th ? There you go.
At Tompkins Square Park.
While working at Tompkins Square Park that day, did you happen to see anything unusual ? Yeah, I saw him sell 18 rocks of crack cocaine to a male Hispanic, 20-25.
- Did you chase after the de - Sustained.
Johnny.
Just say, "What happened next ?" What happened next ? I ran after the defendant, I announced that I was a police officer, and I arrested him.
What happened next ? I found 40 vials of crack and $320 in cash in his backpack.
Nothing further.
How much do you weigh ? Excuse me ? If you were gonna step on a scale, where would the dial stop ? Objection.
Relevance ? Sustained.
Have you ever run 100 yards without stopping ? Objection.
Relevance ? Overruled.
Answer the question.
Yeah, I've run 100 yards.
Oh, when ? I don't know.
A while ago.
Nothing further.
Why are you always late ? Okay, let's start over.
- What sounds good ? Thai ? Japanese ? - Japanese.
LoLook, I know I screwed up when we were dating.
I admit it.
- Brian - I would really like to give this another shot if you're open to it.
It feels a little soon.
Better than a little late.
What does that mean ? I have no idea.
I need more time.
Okay ? You seeing someone ? Of course not.
- Just asking.
- You ? No.
I still- You know how I feel about you.
How do you get out of jury duty ? My friend just started at Goldman.
She doesn't wanna miss two weeks of work.
Look, I would love to help, but it would be unethical of me to respond to such questions during business hours.
However, if we were someplace else, like a quaint Italian café.
- Brian - Tonight, 8:00, Il Cantinori.
I'm meeting my parents up in Westport.
Fine.
8:30, Gorgione.
Mr.
Breitman had a personal issue arise.
We're adjourned until tomorrow, 9:30.
You didn't leave your evidence on the table during lunch ? Yes or no, Miss Finn ? Yes, I didn't know How long have you been here ? A little more than two years.
And you're not smart enough to figure out that leaving drugs unattended in a building filled with criminals is a bad idea ? That it destroys the chain of custody ? I'm sorry.
This is my first trial.
- You don't say.
- I apologize.
I assume your evidence is intact.
See you tomorrow.
Yeah, I'll call you back as soon as I take a look at it.
- Cheers.
- Talk to Steele, right ? - Yeah, congrats.
- Look over the file ? Interview the victim yet ? She's in my office as we speak.
- You want me to sit in ? - For what ? I'm just asking.
Look, man, I know Steele told you to oversee this, but I can handle it.
Look, it's all yours, cowboy.
Just let me know what's going on from time to time in case Steele asks.
You have any trouble getting a restraining order ? What's that ? You got a restraining order against the ex-boyfriend, right ? Of course.
First thing I did.
Gloria, how're you doing today ? I'm okay.
First thing we need to do is get a restraining order against that ex-boyfriend of yours.
You were at the Suncrest Motel with a male prostitute, correct ? - Yes.
- Were you drinking ? - No.
- Doing drugs ? No.
So you just walked into a room with a 19-year-old stranger, said hello, and had sex ? - I'm not sure I said hello, but yes, something like that.
- Nothing further.
Did having sex with a prostitute affect your vision, Professor ? No.
Did it affect your ability to identify the defendant's car you saw screeching out of the parking lot on the day Jane Ritchie was murdered ? No.
- Nothing further.
- That's it for today.
Jury may be excused.
I want you to summarize all medical records as soon as possible.
Sure, right away.
We'll talk more about it over dinner.
Chinese sound good ? Yeah.
Sure.
I just Googled the defense expert, Dr.
Jackson, the guy who's supposed to say Jane Ritchie died of a drug overdose.
And ? He got his privileges suspended two years ago from East Side Hospital.
Tell Mike at dinner.
Did you plead out that basketball fight yet ? No, the defendant's a real punk.
I might take it to trial.
We talked about this.
Things have changed.
I don't care.
Plead it out.
I'll be right back.
Excuse me, Jim ? Nick Potter.
Good, how are you, Detective ? Sure.
In Chinatown.
A place called Yang Chow.
Hey, Lisa, where are you ? No, I I thought it was definite.
Yeah, maybe, uh, we can do something this weekend.
Good.
So how much were you making at that Cromwell place ? Oh, about $150,000.
As a first-year ? Yeah, crazy, right ? And now you're here.
Let me guess.
You weren't self-actualizing.
Something like that.
So this is your true calling ? Prosecuting the disenfranchised for 51 grand a year ? I hope so.
But you're not sure ? Am I on the witness stand or something ? So that's a no.
It's a maybe.
But not a yes.
This how you talk to your boyfriend ? I don't have one.
But if I did, probably.
Call an ambulance.
Now ! Mike ! Mike ! Oh, my God.
Mike ! It's gonna be okay.
Everything's gonna be okay.
Hang in there.
Send an ambulance right away to, uh, 28 Mott Street.
A man-uh, District Attorney's been shot.
Mike ! Look at me ! Look at me.
Look at me, Mike.
Look at me.
Okay, okay, okay, okay ! All right.
I'll tell you how much at for a statement from District Attorney Arthur Branch.
A.
D.
A.
Mike Randolph was pronounced dead at 8:05 this morning.
Though we have no suspects in custody at the moment, let me assure you, let me promise you, that we will solve this case.
This is a sad day for the city.
Today we mourn the loss of a great lawyer, and a wonderful friend.
Mike Randolph was a man of profound integrity, who served his community proudly for the last 20 years.
He devoted his life to fighting crime and now he has paid the ultimate price.
Hey, did you talk to the eighth floor ? Yeah, Branch wants to proceed with the trial.
Show of strength.
- All that.
- Let me guess, his boy Jack Berwyn's taking over.
- Well, I told Arthur that - I worked with Randolph for ten years, okay.
I was an usher at his wedding, no one living knows this case better than I do.
Which is why I convinced Branch to give it to you.
So it's mine ? Yes.
All right.
Don't disappoint me.
I think you know me better than that.
Christina ? Oh, what's wrong ? Here.
- I know it's tough, but - I just I can't believe he's dead.
And that after- rather than just deal with this, with Mike- I have to worry about some asshole judge dismissing my case- - What do you mean dismissing your case ? - I lost my evidence.
You what ? Judge Harrigan wants to see you in chambers right away.
Huh.
Where have you been ? I'm sorry, I didn't think we were gonna be in session today, but since we are, I have to disclose that- We're on for 11:00.
Pull yourself together and get ready for trial.
Take this with you.
Is-is that- To leave evidence unattended is an insult to me, this court, the defendant.
If it happens again,I'll call your supervisor and have you fired.
I understand.
Mike Randolph was a hell of a good guy.
Yeah.
Yeah, that's him right there, he framed me.
- Officer Kelly ? - That's right.
He handcuffed me, knocked me down, and stuffed those drugs right down my pants.
First man's hands that've been down there too.
I swear on the Holy Bible.
Why would officer Kelly plant drugs on you ? Well, because he hates me.
Hates you, why ? Because I'm on the corner minding my own business.
And I see this brother, right ? And he's running.
Graceful.
And then I hear this, like, big huffing and puffing sound.
You know, like one of those rhinos on one of them animal shows.
And it's him.
Fat ass.
Officer Kelly ? He's chasing the brother.
And I yell, Yo, Fatso ! Maybe you should stop eating those Krispy Kremes and drink a Slim Fast here and there.
Maybe you'll be able to catch little homie.
Because you made fun of him, Officer Kelly framed you.
Is that what you're saying ? Yeah, and then he falls on the grease behind Eddie, the kabob man, and start-and I start laughing.
The fat ass gets mad, and comes after me ! Objection, to the defendant's usage of the term, "fat ass" .
As perspective jurors, it's important to identify any potential conflict.
So if any of you know the defendant, any member of the defense team, the prosecution team- Excuse me, my name is Jack Brady.
I know the prosecutor, Brian Peluso.
I should've said I know of you.
You know "of me" ? I've been dating Lisa for the past two months.
I assume you know Lisa, Mr.
Peluso.
Uh sure.
We, um we used to date, but that, uh it's been over for a while, no big deal.
Well, I thought it made sense to bring it up.
Since I've heard so much about you, it'd be hard for me to be impartial.
That makes sense.
So, I'm excused ? Yes.
Nice meeting you, Brian.
Yeah, make sure you say hi to Lisa for me.
My ex-wife dumped me five years ago.
Um, with all due respect, Your Honor, th-this is kind of different,because I, you know, I- I broke it off with her.
Right.
Truth is, I-I wasn't ready to commit.
No worries, son.
You'll be fine.
Gloria.
Hey, come on in.
Is everything okay ? - I need your help.
- Sure, what's up ? My cousin lent me $10,000 to help bail out Luis.
Excuse me ? I didn't know who I'm supposed to give the money to.
You wanna bail out the guy who attacked you ? Yeah.
I love him.
We just got a restraining order, Gloria, remember ? You signed it.
This is not a very good idea, Gloria, however you feel about Luis.
I love him.
You might think you do.
We're getting married d next week.
Gloria, that doesn't make sense.
Uh, who do I give the money to ? I'm done asking for favors, Mr.
Kellner.
Done hoping that Bridget does the right thing.
- Done ? You weren't even involved until this morning.
- That's because my friend was alive until this morning.
We know this is an emotional case, Jim, in light of recent events.
- However, that doesn't change - If Bridget doesn't cooperate, I'm indicting her on felony drug conspiracy.
Tonight, and tomorrow we'll begin building a felony murder case against her.
- Murder, what the hell ar - You have no evidence that will be admitted, Jim.
I'll get there.
Believe me.
Yes or no, Bridget.
You son of a bitch.
Last chance, yes or no.
Terry ? Arrest her.
Felony drug conspiracy.
This is ridiculous, Jim.
Daddy ! Put your hands behind your back, please.
All right, all right, wait.
Fine.
She'll testify.
No, they'll kill me ! We'll protect you, you have my word on that.
Protect her ? D.
A.
was just gunned down.
How are you going to protect her ? No, no, no, I have to protect her.
Fine, but she still has to tell the truth.
You gonna do that ? Yes ! Let her go.
When we adjourned, I remember Mike said something like, we'll talk more at dinner.
You think Escobar might've heard Randolph say that ? I don't know.
Maybe.
Well, did Randolph say where you were having dinner ? He just said Chinese.
Well, who else knew that you were having dinner at Yang Chow ? No one.
That's it ? Just you two ? Mmm-hmm.
If you think of anything else, give us a call right away, okay ? What is it ? I think I might've screwed up.
- Nick, I really don't have time - I got a call from someone named Detective Sullivan.
- What're you talking about.
- This guy Detective Sullivan.
Said he was working with Randolph.
And that he might stop by the restaurant last night.
So I told him where we were eating.
You told some guy that you've never met before where Randolph was having dinner, just like that.
No questions asked.
- I wasn't thinking I just - Call Detective Berner right away.
I'm-I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to- I- maybe I should just- Just what ? Quit.
If that's what you want.
There is no question, that the defendant by virtue of his charmand humor and eloquence, was able to diminish the serious nature of the crime with which he's been charged.
I mean, let's face it.
He was funny.
He made you laugh.
He was, in a word, entertaining.
But picture him in a different setting.
The street.
A place where he deploys his humor and his charm and his eloquence to entice naive children to experiment with crack.
The poison that he sells.
The poison that decimates so many promising lives.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is not funny.
- Hey.
- Hey.
You read through my interview notes, right ? Yeah, she wants to marry the guy who raped her.
Makes a lot of sense, actually.
Let's 'em argue marital privilege.
And makes it impossible for us to win the case.
Is that a white flag you're waving ? All I'm saying is we should plead them out to aggravated assault.
Oh, come on, Billy, the guy raped her.
We can't prove it.
- So you wanna roll like a bitch at the first sign of trouble ? - It ain't rolling if you can't win.
That how you stay undefeated ? By pleading out anything with a little hair on it ? I like to try cases I can win.
You know, why don't I just take the case off your hands.
If that's what you want.
That's what you want.
That's why you came in here in the first place, right ? To dump the case.
I'm happy to stay involved, Brian.
Yeah, as long as we win, right ? Hey, you here to quit or work ? Work.
You sure ? Positive.
Good, grab Rossi and come with me.
After Kellner testifies, I'm calling the medical experts, so I'll need the slides ready to go.
What the hell's going on ? - We've been trying to find you.
- You got an adjournment without talking to me ? Escobar's lawyer wants to make a deal.
Of course he does, he read the witness list, realized that Kellner was ready to testify- I'm willing to risk a mistrial, Jim, or an acquittal, because some juror is pissing in his pants.
- For God's sake, Alexandra - Think about the jury.
They already know a D.
A.
was murdered.
Escobar needs to go down for murder two, life without parole.
We offer 20 to life and keep parole on the table, Escobar will bite.
He buys a beanie and reads the Koran, he'll be out when he's 47.
- It's the right move.
- The guy had Mike murdered.
That is not relevant to this case.
Not-not relevant.
What do you mean ? What do you mean not relevant ? Jane Ritchie's parents are on their way over here right now.
After we are done talking to them, you are going to go to Rikers, and you are going to make a deal.
This conversation is over.
We believe that pleading Escobar out to murder two is clearly the best resolution to a very difficult situation.
The risk of a mistrial, even an acquittal, is significant.
Right, good.
So Escobar, he'll be in jail for the rest of his life, right ? He will be eligible for parole, but not for 20 years.
20 years ? That's not good enough.
I won't accept that.
- I know that this is difficult to comprehend - You don't know a damn thing.
This animal cut open my little girl like a lamb for the slaughter.
And you're telling me he's gonna be released from prison someday ? Is that what you're telling me ? It's possible, yes.
A coward.
This guy not only killed my daughter, he murdered your friend, and now you're cutting him a break ? Don't ever sell me out like that again.
Hey, you okay ? Yeah.
Get a verdict yet ? I lost my first case too.
I won.
You won ? I still can't believe it.
Oh, congratulations.
Victory flowers.
Oh, thanks.
You shouldn't have done that.
Oh, they're from Mike.
He told me to buy you flowers, the second the verdict came in, win or lose.
Oh, that's To Mike Randolph.
To Mike ! Hey, hey, hey, you stop by the ATM ? I'm gonna take care of you tomorrow, okay ? Yeah.
Mmm, thanks.
I ever tell you how hot you are ? I ever tell you how much I hate guys who use the word hot ? More than white boys who say, "peace out" ? You're better off without her, I promise.
The truth is she should've dumped me six months ago.
Good, then you should come dancing with us.
Finny, you see me dance, it's over.
Oh, that good ? That bad.
I'm very forgiving.
You okay ? Yeah, I'm fine.
We have an office pool.
The over-under on you is three months.
Take the over.
I already did.
Oh, dammit.
What ? It's late.
I'll get you a car.
You don't make enough money.
Okay, a cab.
You could just spend the night.
Uh-uh, we don't wanna break our vows.