Problems between criminal psychologist Fitz and his wife Judith continue after Fitz is arrested outside his in-laws' house and taken to the station. There he meets Sean and his partner Tina, car thieves who embark upon a spree of violence.

Whilst on their spree of violence, Tina and Sean murder a police officer. Criminal psychologist Fitz turns down DS Penhaligon's offer of a bed for the night, but is then approached by Tina who asks him to accompany her to her flat.

Criminal psychologist Fitz interrogates Tina and realises that her psychological problems stem from her relationship with her family and she finds expression through provoking Sean.

Fitz continues his uneasy relationship with the Manchester constabulary when the crime fighters are called in to find a missing boy. Extra pressure is piled on when an angry mob gathers at the police station demanding action and DCI Bilborough awaits the imminent birth of his child.