Ep 2. The Leaf in the Forest

Ironside season 1 episode 2, titled "The Leaf in the Forest," follows the San Francisco Police Department's Chief of Detectives, Robert Ironside, and his team as they investigate the murder of a college professor. The professor, who specializes in botany, was found dead in his research lab with a poisonous leaf next to him.

As Ironside and his team begin to investigate, they discover that the victim was part of a group of eco-activists who were protesting against a big corporation that was logging trees in a nearby forest. The activists had been trying to prove that the corporation was using harmful pesticides, which were causing the leaves to become toxic.

The investigation takes a dramatic turn when one of the eco-activists admits to killing the professor. However, Ironside is not convinced that the confession is genuine. As he delves deeper into the case, he realizes that there is more to the murder than meets the eye. He discovers that the big corporation is involved in the crime and that the eco-activists may have been onto something when they were protesting against the company's practices.

As Ironside and his team unravel the mystery, they find themselves in dangerous situations and facing some of the city's most powerful individuals. But that doesn't stop Ironside from doing what he believes is right. He is determined to bring the killer to justice and to expose the corrupt practices of the big corporation.

While investigating the case, there are moments of humor and banter among the team that serve to humanize the characters and make them more relatable. Ironside's no-nonsense approach to solving crimes is showcased time and again, and his team members hold a deep respect for him.

The episode also touches on themes of environmentalism, corporate greed, and the power dynamic between large corporations and citizens. While the case is fictional, it raises important questions about the role of corporations in society and the impact of their actions on the environment.

Overall, "The Leaf in the Forest" is a gripping and thought-provoking crime drama that showcases Ironside's intelligence, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice. The episode sets the tone for the rest of the series, highlighting the team's dynamic and showcasing the challenges they face in their line of work.