Ep 9. Pestolozzi's Revenge

In Hill Street Blues season 2 episode 9, titled Pestolozzi's Revenge, the Hill Street precinct is tasked with investigating a string of brutal assaults on local merchants in the area. Among the victims is a store owner named Pestolozzi who blames the police for not doing enough to protect him.

As the investigation unfolds, Sergeant Esterhaus and Officer Bates bring in a suspect named Curtis Lowe, a known troublemaker with a history of violence. However, their case falls apart when a witness recants their testimony, leading to Lowe's release.

Meanwhile, tensions rise between Lieutenant Goldblume and Captain Furillo as they clash over department policies. Goldblume advocates for taking a more community-oriented approach to policing, while Furillo is more focused on maintaining order and enforcing the law.

As the investigation continues, clues begin to emerge that suggest Pestolozzi may not be as innocent as he claims. Detective LaRue and Officer Washington uncover evidence linking Pestolozzi to the assaults, raising questions about his true motives.

In the end, the case is resolved in a surprising and dramatic fashion that highlights the complex nature of crime and justice in a rapidly changing urban environment.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to the gritty and realistic portrayal of police work that made Hill Street Blues a groundbreaking series. From the officers' daily struggles with bureaucracy and interdepartmental politics to the heart-wrenching moments of violence and tragedy, Pestolozzi's Revenge offers a raw and unflinching look at the realities of law enforcement in America.