In a small Connecticut town, a beloved priest is shot dead in broad daylight. The community is in shock, and the pressure mounts on the police to find the killer. State’s Attorney Henry Harvey, known for his integrity, takes on the case. The investigation quickly leads to the arrest of John Waldron, an out-of-town drifter who is found nearby with what seems to be incriminating evidence. The townspeople and local officials are anxious to see justice served swiftly, but Harvey is not entirely convinced of Waldron's guilt.

Harvey delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding the crime, unearthing discrepancies and scrutinizing the testimonies that seem too convenient. Amid increasing political and social pressure for a conviction, Harvey’s resolve brings him face to face with ethical dilemmas and moral questions about justice. Determined to uncover the truth, he faces mounting opposition from those eager for a quick resolution. The story turns into a tense courtroom drama where themes of morality, justice, and truth are examined under the scrutiny of public opinion and legal nuances.