Ep 22. Screwed

Detectives Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler are back for another gripping episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. In season 8 episode 22, titled "Screwed", the unit is confronted with a heart-wrenching case of sexual assault and abuse.

The episode starts with the discovery of a young woman's body, which appears to have been raped and murdered. The detectives start their investigation and discover that the victim, Alex, was a prostitute and was working at an escort service. The team soon suspects that Alex's killer may be someone from the service.

Throughout the episode, the detectives navigate their way through the seedy underworld of escort services and prostitution in New York City. They soon discover that Alex's supervisor, Maxine, is running a highly profitable prostitution ring, exploiting young girls and women for her own financial gain.

The detectives interview several women who have worked for Maxine, all of whom are intimidated and scared to speak out against her. However, one brave survivor, Tandi, comes forward and reveals that she was also sexually assaulted by Maxine's clients.

As the investigation continues, the detectives realize that Maxine has connections in high places, including a crooked lawyer who is helping her avoid prosecution. Frustrated by the lack of progress in the case, Benson and Stabler turn to ADA Cabot for help.

With Cabot on their side, the detectives are finally able to build a case against Maxine and her associates. Maxine is eventually arrested and charged with multiple counts of sexual assault and exploitation.

The episode ends with Benson and Stabler reflecting on the case and the trauma that these young women have had to endure. They are left disturbed by the fact that there are many similar cases happening across the city, and that many of these victims are too scared or ashamed to come forward.

Overall, "Screwed" is a powerful and thought-provoking episode that explores the disturbing reality of prostitution and sexual exploitation. It highlights the importance of listening to survivors and speaking out against those who seek to exploit vulnerable individuals.