CSI: Miami: Season 1, Episode 3 - Wet Foot/Dry Foot (2002)

The episode "Wet Foot/Dry Foot" begins with a dramatic scene on a Miami beach where a group of Cuban immigrants arrives on a makeshift raft. As they attempt to reach the shore, a confrontation occurs with the U.S. Coast Guard, who are patrolling the area. The tension escalates when one of the immigrants, a young man named Carlos, is shot in the leg during the Coast Guard's attempt to apprehend them. The scene is chaotic, with the immigrants panicking and trying to flee while the Coast Guard calls for backup.

Following the beach incident, the Miami-Dade Crime Lab team, led by Horatio Caine, is called to investigate the shooting. Horatio and his team, including Calleigh Duquesne and Eric Delko, arrive at the scene to gather evidence. They find Carlos bleeding and in need of medical attention. As they interview witnesses, they learn that Carlos was trying to escape Cuba for a better life, and his injury raises questions about the Coast Guard's use of force.

The investigation takes a turn when the team discovers that Carlos's brother, a man named Javier, is missing. They suspect that Javier may have been involved in the incident and could be in danger. Horatio feels a personal connection to the case, as he understands the desperation of those trying to escape oppressive regimes. He vows to find Javier and uncover the truth behind the shooting.

As the team delves deeper into the case, they learn that Javier was last seen with a group of other immigrants who had also made the perilous journey. They track down one of the other immigrants, who reveals that Javier was trying to protect Carlos during the Coast Guard's intervention. This information leads the team to believe that Javier may have been wrongfully accused of being involved in the shooting.

Meanwhile, the Coast Guard is conducting their own investigation into the incident. They claim that their actions were justified, but Horatio and his team are determined to find evidence that contradicts this narrative. They analyze the bullet trajectory and gather forensic evidence from the scene, which suggests that the Coast Guard's account may not be entirely accurate.

As the investigation progresses, the team discovers that Javier has been hiding out in a nearby neighborhood. They conduct a search and eventually find him in a rundown apartment. Javier is terrified and initially refuses to cooperate, fearing that he will be deported. Horatio reassures him, emphasizing that they are there to help him and find justice for Carlos.

In a tense moment, Javier reveals that he witnessed the Coast Guard shoot Carlos and that he has evidence that could prove their wrongdoing. He reluctantly agrees to testify, but only if he is granted asylum. Horatio promises to do everything in his power to protect him. This decision weighs heavily on Horatio, as he understands the implications of bringing a case against the Coast Guard.

The climax of the episode occurs during a confrontation between Horatio and the Coast Guard officials. Armed with the evidence provided by Javier, Horatio confronts them about their actions. The tension is palpable as he demands accountability for the shooting. The Coast Guard officials are defensive, but Horatio's determination and the evidence he presents force them to reconsider their stance.

In the aftermath, the team works to ensure that Carlos receives the medical care he needs and that Javier's testimony is taken seriously. The episode concludes with a sense of resolution as Horatio reflects on the complexities of immigration and the struggles faced by those seeking a better life. The emotional weight of the case lingers, highlighting the personal stakes involved for everyone affected by the events of the day.

In the ending of "Wet Foot/Dry Foot," the team discovers the truth behind the murder of a Cuban immigrant, leading to a confrontation with the real killer. The episode concludes with the resolution of the case, highlighting the complexities of immigration and the emotional toll it takes on individuals involved.

As the episode nears its conclusion, the tension escalates. The CSI team, led by Horatio Caine, has been investigating the murder of a young Cuban man found washed ashore. The investigation reveals that the victim was involved in a smuggling operation, which complicates the case.

Scene by scene, the narrative unfolds:

The team gathers at the crime lab, where they analyze evidence collected from the beach. Horatio, with his calm demeanor, discusses the implications of the victim's death with his team, emphasizing the need to understand the circumstances surrounding the immigrant's journey. The emotional weight of the case is palpable as they consider the victim's dreams and struggles.

As they delve deeper, they uncover a connection to a local smuggler, who has been exploiting desperate immigrants. The team tracks down the smuggler, leading to a tense confrontation. Horatio's determination to seek justice for the victim drives the narrative forward, showcasing his commitment to the truth.

In a pivotal scene, the team confronts the smuggler in a warehouse. The atmosphere is charged with tension as they piece together the events leading to the murder. The smuggler, realizing he is cornered, attempts to flee, but the team is quick to apprehend him. This moment highlights the team's dedication and teamwork, as they work seamlessly to bring the perpetrator to justice.

As the episode wraps up, Horatio reflects on the case with his team. He expresses a sense of sorrow for the victim and the harsh realities faced by immigrants. The emotional toll of the investigation is evident on the faces of the team members, each grappling with the implications of their work.

In the final moments, the team stands together, united in their mission to uphold justice. Horatio's leadership shines through as he reassures his team that their efforts matter, even in the face of such complex social issues. The episode closes with a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by those seeking a better life, leaving the audience with a sense of empathy and reflection on the human condition.

The fates of the main characters are intertwined with the resolution of the case. Horatio Caine remains steadfast in his role as a leader, committed to justice. The other team members, including Calleigh Duquesne and Eric Delko, are left with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by immigrants, shaping their perspectives as they continue their work in the field. The episode concludes with a sense of closure, yet it leaves lingering questions about the broader implications of immigration and the human stories behind the statistics.

In "Wet Foot/Dry Foot," the third episode of CSI: Miami, there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes without any additional scenes or content after the credits roll. The focus remains on the resolution of the case and the emotional arcs of the characters throughout the episode. The narrative wraps up with the team reflecting on the events that transpired, emphasizing the themes of justice and the complexities of human motivations.

Horatio Caine, portrayed by David Caruso, is visibly affected by the discovery of the body of the young Cuban boy. His expression reflects a deep sense of empathy and concern for the plight of the refugees. Throughout the episode, he is driven by a desire to seek justice and understand the broader implications of their struggle.

In 'Wet Foot/Dry Foot', the episode opens with a group of Cuban refugees attempting to reach Miami. The team discovers a body washed ashore, which leads them to investigate the circumstances surrounding the refugees' perilous journey. The episode highlights the dangers they face and the emotional toll of their desperate escape.

Calleigh Duquesne, played by Emily Procter, takes on a significant role in the investigation by analyzing the evidence found at the scene. Her expertise in ballistics becomes crucial as they uncover the circumstances surrounding the boy's death, and she demonstrates a strong commitment to uncovering the truth.

The episode 'Wet Foot/Dry Foot' directly addresses the theme of immigration through the lens of the Cuban refugees' experiences. The characters grapple with the moral complexities of the situation, and their interactions reveal differing perspectives on the immigration policy, particularly the 'wet foot, dry foot' policy that dictates the fate of Cuban migrants.

The title 'Wet Foot/Dry Foot' refers to the U.S. immigration policy that allows Cuban migrants who reach land (dry foot) to stay, while those intercepted at sea (wet foot) are sent back. This policy is central to the episode's plot, as it shapes the characters' motivations and the tragic circumstances surrounding the refugees, highlighting the desperation and hope that drive them to risk their lives.

"Wet Foot/Dry Foot," the third episode of CSI: Miami, contains several elements that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

1. Violence: The episode involves a murder investigation, which includes graphic descriptions of the crime scene and the deceased. There are moments that depict the aftermath of violence, which may be disturbing.

2. Death and Grief: The emotional weight of loss is a central theme, as characters deal with the implications of death and the impact on families. This may evoke feelings of sadness or discomfort.

3. Drug Use: There are references to drug trafficking and the illegal activities associated with it, which may not be suitable for younger audiences.

4. Tension and Conflict: The episode features intense confrontations and high-stress situations that could be unsettling for some viewers.

5. Cultural Sensitivity: The storyline involves themes related to immigration and the struggles faced by individuals seeking a better life, which may require a nuanced understanding that younger viewers might not possess.

These elements contribute to the overall tone of the show, which is geared towards a mature audience.