Ep 21. The Witches of Gulfport

In JAG season 5 episode 21, "The Witches of Gulfport," the team is called to investigate an apparent murder case at the US Navy Base in Gulfport, Mississippi. The victim, a young Navy sailor, was found dead in the woods near the base. The investigation leads the team to a group of Wiccans, who were practicing their religion in the area at the time of the murder. The local authorities are quick to accuse the Wiccans of being responsible for the murder, citing their unconventional beliefs and practices as evidence.

As the investigation unfolds, the team is faced with a number of challenges and surprises. They soon realize that the case is more complex than they initially thought, and that there may be other individuals involved in the crime. The team also learns more about the Wiccan faith and the misconceptions surrounding it in mainstream society.

Throughout the episode, tensions rise between the Wiccans and the local authorities. The Wiccans argue that they are being unfairly targeted and discriminated against, while the authorities defend their actions as necessary for protecting the community. The team tries to remain impartial as they gather evidence and interview witnesses, but emotions run high as the case becomes more and more contentious.

Meanwhile, tensions also rise within the team itself. Harm and Mac disagree on how to handle the case, with Harm believing that the Wiccans are innocent and Mac feeling the need to follow the evidence wherever it leads. The two of them argue and clash throughout the episode, forcing them to confront their differing beliefs and approaches to the law.

In the end, the team is able to piece together what happened and bring the responsible parties to justice. However, the case leaves a lasting impact on the team and the Wiccans involved. They are forced to confront their biases and prejudices, and to acknowledge the importance of understanding and respecting different beliefs and practices.

"The Witches of Gulfport" is a tense and thought-provoking episode of JAG, addressing important issues of discrimination, religious tolerance, and the role of law enforcement in protecting marginalized communities. Through its characters and storyline, the episode challenges viewers to examine their own beliefs and biases and to work towards greater understanding and empathy for those who may be different from themselves.