Expert: Erik Smith - 3/9/2009

Question
Hi! I'm trying to find the title of a law and order and episode. The story involves a homeless man who is accused of murder, and if I recall correctly part of his defense is that because he lives on the street he does not live by the same rules of society. I think he killed someone who was trying to take his food, or something. In any case, in his final address to the jury, McCoy says something like "society has denied this man a lot. Don't deny him justice." Can you help? Thanks.


Answer
Hi Jean,

I think the episode is "Darwinian", Season 14, Episode 11. The victim was struck by a hit-and-run driver, but forensic evidence showed that he had been beaten to death first. Is this the episode you're thinking of? (Coincidentally, a friend of a friend appeared in this episode as a homeless woman.)

Let me know if this is incorrect, or if you have any other questions.

Sincerely,
Erik