It was a sweltering summer night in 1952 when Mary, an 18-year-old African American girl, was bludgeoned to death. Her body was found by the riverbank that separated the small town in Arkansas. The news of her death spread quickly, and the town was rocked by the brutality of the crime.

Sheriff Wayan discovers a love triangle, in which two people are pursuing or involved in a romantic relationship with one person, or in which one person in a romantic relationship with someone is simultaneously pursuing. He discovers a web of deceit, prejudice, and immorality in the heart of his small town. He knew that if he didn't root it out, it could destroy them all.

Sheriff Wayan worked tirelessly to uncover the truth, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence. He discovered that Mary's father, Deacon Thomas Marshall, had a history of violence and had been seen arguing with his daughter the night of the murder. Jossey Phillips, a member of the local Ku Klux Klan, was also a suspect due to his racist views and past history of violence against African Americans.

As the investigation continued, Sheriff Wayan uncovered a dark side of his small town. Prejudice and racism were prevalent, and people were hiding secrets and lies. Sheriff Wayan knew that if he didn't confront these issues, they could destroy the town from the inside out. He remained determined to get to the truth, no matter the cost.