The Machine identifies a school teacher who witnessed a mob hit as their next POI. Now, Reese and Finch protect the unfortunate soul who was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
A young boy is found dead on a park carousel after being dropped off by his uncle Joe Gilbert (guest star James Carpinello). When Detectives Benson (Mariska Hargitay) and Stabler (Christopher Meloni) learn that the boy was beaten to death they suspect that it could be the result of a bully at school. The investigation leads to an unsettling gambling ring. Detectives suspect that Gilberts acquaintance, Joe Roberts is beating his wife Sandra (guest star Drea de Matteo) and the case takes a horrifying turn.
Iris welcomes an enigmatic ally to their community, while Hope questions the visitor's motives; a message upends the sisters' world view, forcing them to decide between the safety of their home and the uncertainty of the world beyond.
Burdened by their pasts, members of the group adopt opposing strategies for dealing with a massive obstacle. Pressure is put on the group to return home.
As the group searches for answers, some struggle to find common ground while others question who can be trusted. A shocking message sets a new mission into motion.
