This was the only episode written by Larry Forrester, who could really spin a tale. Forrester wrote one of the greatest war movies ever, TORA, TORA, TORA (1970). Watch for this incredible historical WWII film.
True, this is familiar material, but the cast puts it over the top. Memorable actor David Huddleston plays town sheriff Bradden who has a very pretty wife, played by Trish Stewart. You can guess the rest. Kitty happens to have one too many guy pals and they turn up dead. Bradden is the killer, but there's a neat twist, and you have to love it.
Once Barnaby enters the case, Bradden blames the murders on a mysterious serial killer --and it all could stick -- because he's the sheriff. Pretty clever, huh?
Of course, you know Barnaby is going to nail this fiend. Cheers to David Huddleston, a natural at whatever role he does, best known as the "other" Lebowski in the cult film, THE BIG LEBOWSKI, many other movies and tv shows. Beautiful Trish Stewart, who has long since retired, was a series regular on the YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS.
Forrester may have borrowed the idea for this story from the pilot episode of CANNON, if you can recall.
In that episode the small town sheriff also had a very attractive wife (played by Lynda Day George), the only difference is SHE was the killer.
Good support from popular actor Wayne Maunder, known for the outrageous cult film, THE SEVEN MINUTES (1971). Special appearance by actor George Wallace as Gus, the deputy. Wallace gained cult status as the orignal COMMANDO CODY in 50s movie serials.
SEASON 5 EPISODE 14 remastered CBS/Paramount dvd box set.