The investigation of Stenger continues and DI Keenan focuses on trying to find the mobster's ex-girlfriend Louise. She fled the police safe-house having lost faith in their ability to keep her safe after Stenger paid her a visit. Keenan begins to believe that Stenger is getting information from inside the station and that they have a bent copper on their hands; he shares that view with DCI Harry Hutchinson who sets his sights on PC William Jackson. PC Lucy Slater returns to work after her stay in hospital.The police participate in Operation Spider, the massive roundup of a suspected pedophile ring. Inspector Jenny Black's husband is one of those arrested but it turns out it's Jenny who has a secret. PCs Kelly Cooper and Neil Parker look into the case of a homeless man who is found badly beaten. It turns out he is married but has been living on the street since leaving his wife. Additional information indicates that his wife has hatched a scheme to make some money.
—garykmcd