Vanity Fair Confidential Season 1 Episode 7 Don't Ask Don't Kill

In episode seven of season one of Vanity Fair Confidential, titled "Don't Ask Don't Kill," viewers are taken back to the summer of 2000 in Fort Worth, Texas. The episode explores the murder case of openly gay men in the area, which was initially labeled as isolated incidents, but soon became a full-blown serial killer case.

The episode starts with the introduction of an unlikely hero, Fort Worth homicide detective Manny Reyes, who was known for his impeccable work ethic and successful track record. Manny was the only detective who believed that there was a serial killer targeting gay men in the city and made it his mission to catch the killer before he claimed another victim.

Viewers are introduced to the first victim, Richard Hernandez, a well-known hairdresser who was brutally murdered in his salon. Manny found several clues that pointed towards a possible hate crime and urged the police department to consider the possibility of a serial killer, but his pleas were ignored due to the department's bias towards the LGBTQ+ community.

As the murders continued, Manny's determination grew stronger, and he became the lead detective on the case. He enlisted the help of the Texas Rangers and the FBI to assist in the investigation, but the killer remained elusive.

The episode takes an in-depth look at the investigation process, including how the detectives worked with the victims' families and friends to create a profile of the killer and gather evidence. They also interviewed potential witnesses and suspects, including a man who had a history of violence against gay men.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to some of the victims and learn about their lives before and after their untimely deaths. The documentary also touches on the impact of the murders on the LGBTQ+ community in Fort Worth and how they felt ignored and marginalized by law enforcement.

"Don't Ask Don't Kill" also highlights the political and social climate at the time of the murders. The episode sheds light on the military's controversial "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which was implemented in 1993 and prohibited openly gay individuals from serving in the military. This policy created a reactionary anti-gay sentiment that was pervasive in society, further fueling the hate against the LGBTQ+ community.

The episode concludes with the detective's breakthrough in the case and the eventual capture of the killer. Viewers are given insight into the trial and conviction of the perpetrator and how justice was finally served for the victims and their families.

In summary, episode seven of Vanity Fair Confidential's first season "Don't Ask, Don't Kill" is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that highlights the importance of inclusivity and fairness in law enforcement. The episode explores the complexities of hate crimes and their impact on marginalized communities while highlighting the determination and heroism of an exceptional detective who refused to let bias and discrimination stop him from bringing justice to those who were murdered.