Doug Olear

When the Baltimore PD comes under pressure for their failings in combating a drugs-related homicide, a new detail is set up to placate the politicians; their impossible task is bringing the elusive Avon Barksdale to justice.

Jane almost drowns while investigating a fireman's murder and loses his memory, turning him into his old con man self.

Gung-ho tactics from Herc, Carver and Prez result in a riot, innocent casualties and bad publicity for the new department. Meanwhile, Bubbles the snitch introduces an undercover officer into the projects, and the detail plans a raid on Barksdale's supply.

Marlo takes care of some unfinished business and strikes a deal with Avon Barksdale. Meanwhile, Mayor Carcetti's Chief of Staff blames Royce for the Campbell revelation.

Carcetti maps out a damage-control scenario; McNulty asks Landsman to pull police off the homeless case; Haynes' concerns about Templeton fall on deaf ears; Dukie seeks out an old mentor for a loan.

The wire begins to yield information about the Barksdale organisation, though finding links to the top proves elusive, and Stringer and Avon reminisce on how far they've come, with each harbouring plans for the future.