Ep 3. The Last White Man on East Ferry Avenue

In season 2 of Hill Street Blues, episode 3 titled "The Last White Man on East Ferry Avenue," tensions are high as the officers of the Hill Street precinct try to maintain order on their streets.

As the title suggests, the episode focuses largely on one white man living in a predominantly African American neighborhood - Arthur Finn, who refuses to move despite harassment and intimidation from his neighbors. This storyline highlights the ongoing issues of racism and segregation in urban areas, as well as the complex relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Meanwhile, the rest of the precinct is dealing with their own conflicts and challenges. The episode opens with Detective Belker getting into a scuffle with a suspected purse-snatcher, while Sergeant Esterhaus tries to keep the peace between the officers and their new captain, Jerry Fuchs. Fuchs is much younger than the previous captain and has a more laid-back approach to policing, which doesn't sit well with everyone on the force.

Amidst all this chaos, the officers are tasked with investigating the murder of a respected community leader, Reverend Booker, who was shot while trying to break up a fight. The investigation leads them to a suspect with a history of violence, but they struggle to find concrete evidence to bring him to justice.

Throughout the episode, we see the individual officers grappling with their own personal demons and insecurities. Captain Furillo is struggling with stress and insomnia, while Detective Washington is trying to navigate his complicated relationship with his ex-wife. Meanwhile, Belker continues to struggle with the physical toll of his job and the emotional toll of witnessing so much violence and suffering.

Despite all the challenges they face, the officers of Hill Street precinct remain dedicated to their mission and to each other. The episode ends with a powerful scene in which Furillo addresses the squad, urging them to stay strong and reminding them that their work matters.

Overall, "The Last White Man on East Ferry Avenue" is a powerful and thought-provoking episode of Hill Street Blues that tackles complex issues of race, policing, and urban decay. It's a testament to the show's ability to tackle tough topics while still remaining engaging and entertaining.