Ep 5. The Morning After

The Morning After is the fifth episode of the first season of the British documentary series, 24 Hours in Police Custody. This episode showcases the real-life events that took place on the morning of 2 October 2014, when Bedfordshire Police officers are informed about a woman's allegation that she was drugged and sexually assaulted by a group of men in a Luton hotel.

Viewers are introduced to the case and watch as the investigating team start their inquiry. The detectives assigned to the case are keen to act quickly, but they know they must be meticulous in their work. They need to gather all the evidence they can to support any future trial. The team first interviews the victim, a young woman who shares the harrowing details of her drugging and rape.

The show then proceeds to follow the police as they carry out their investigation and build their case. The footage shows interviews with the suspects, who deny any involvement in the alleged crime. The detectives also gather forensic evidence, including CCTV footage, which can help them understand the events leading up to and following the alleged attack.

The investigation spans 24 hours, during which time, the police are determined to get to the bottom of the allegations and mete out justice if necessary. Despite being faced with a lack of evidence, the detectives manage to piece together the case and build trusted relationships with the victim. The episode's highlight - its dramatic conclusion - sees the protagonist detective Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) Nigel - make an arrest.

Overall, The Morning After is a gripping episode that highlights the complexity of rape investigations and how important it is for detectives to remain professional and unbiased throughout their inquiries. Through interviews with police, witnesses, and suspects, viewers get a first-hand account of how the police handling of rape cases have evolved. The documentary offers a rare and engaging insight into a police station’s inner workings, showing how hardworking and dedicated detectives will work to uncover the truth. It is particularly recommended for viewers interested in crime documentaries or law enforcement.