Grace and her team investigate the murder of a manager of a sleazy local motel. The investigation eventually leads to a maid, who claims the victim was trying to rape her. Complications arise when a local priest offers her the right of sanctuary. Meanwhile, Grace begins to accept Earl's presence in her life.

The squad tracks down a serial killer who has been mutilating women; Ham is temporarily partnered with Butch during Bobby's absence; Earl tries to persuade Grace to help Leon.