Ep 23. In God We Trust

In Law & Order season 15 episode 23, titled "In God We Trust," the detectives of the NYPD's Special Victims Unit investigate a string of sexual assaults that may be connected to a church group. The episode follows the team as they try to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrators to justice, while also grappling with their own personal beliefs.

Lead detectives Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni) and Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) are assigned to the case, which begins with the investigation of a young woman who claims to have been raped by a member of her church group. As the detectives dig deeper, they discover that the suspect has a history of sexual assault and may have preyed on multiple victims.

As the investigation continues, the team uncovers a network of church leaders and members who may be covering up the crimes. The detectives face resistance and distrust from some members of the church, who are unwilling to reveal what they know. Meanwhile, Stabler grapples with his own beliefs as a Catholic and struggles to reconcile his faith with the evil he sees in the world.

The episode also delves into the personal lives of the detectives. Benson struggles with her role as a police officer and her desire to become a mother, while Stabler navigates his relationship with his wife, who is dealing with depression.

As the investigation reaches its climax, the detectives race against the clock to catch the perpetrator before he can strike again. In the end, they must confront the harsh reality of the crimes committed and the toll they have taken on their own beliefs and personal relationships.

Overall, "In God We Trust" is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that explores the complexities of faith and justice in the face of heinous crimes. With its strong performances and compelling plot, it is a standout episode in the long-running series.