Ep 8. Special Care

In the eighth episode of Making a Murderer season 2, titled "Special Care," the documentary delves deeper into the case of Brendan Dassey and the challenges he faced in receiving proper care and education while incarcerated.

Throughout the episode, the filmmakers present interviews with Dassey's family, lawyers, and mental health professionals, painting a stark picture of the young man's struggle to navigate the criminal justice system. Dassey, whose IQ falls in the range of intellectual disability, was interrogated without proper legal representation and ultimately convicted of helping his uncle, Steven Avery, in the murder of Teresa Halbach.

As the episode progresses, Making a Murderer looks at the ways in which Dassey's incarceration has had a severe impact on his mental health, and the difficulties he has experienced in accessing necessary care. The filmmakers document the barriers that exist within the legal system for individuals with cognitive disabilities, and how these can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions.

One of the central issues explored in "Special Care" is the lack of resources available to incarcerated individuals with intellectual disabilities. Dassey, like many others in similar situations, has been forced to navigate a complex and under-resourced system, with little support available to him. The show's interviews with mental health professionals highlight the urgency of providing more resources for these populations, as well as the devastating effects that a lack of support can have on individuals like Dassey.

Despite the difficult subject matter, the episode also offers a glimmer of hope, highlighting examples of legal professionals and advocates who are working to improve conditions for incarcerated individuals with disabilities. Making a Murderer also looks at the broader societal implications of the issues the episode raises, touching on themes of systemic inequality and the way the criminal justice system affects marginalized populations in particular.

Overall, "Special Care" is a poignant and thought-provoking installment of Making a Murderer, shedding light on a overlooked aspect of the criminal justice system with grace and sensitivity. By foregrounding the voices of those most affected by these issues, the documentary powerfully advocates for greater attention and resources for individuals with intellectual disabilities in the legal system.