City of Lies

In 2015, investigative journalist Darius 'Jack' Jackson begins a deep dive into the murder of Christopher Wallace, known as The Notorious B.I.G. His quest for truth uncovers a web of corruption and conspiracy tied to law enforcement and influential figures in the music industry.

During his research, Jackson meets Russell Poole, a disgraced former LAPD detective. Poole shares his theory about the murder, asserting that Suge Knight bribed LAPD officers to orchestrate and cover up Wallace's murder.

In 1997, immediately after Wallace's death, Detective Russell Poole is assigned to the case of off-duty officer Kevin Gaines, who was shot in an incident involving detective Frank Lyga. Under immense pressure, Poole finds hints of Gaines's connections to Suge Knight and gang affiliations.

Against the backdrop of media frenzy surrounding incidents like the Rodney King beating, Poole faces mounting pressure from his superiors to close the case quickly. Despite this, he uncovers significant facts that challenge the narrative planted by his department.

Despite Lieutenant O'Shea’s dismissal of his findings, Poole is reassigned to the Robbery-Homicide Division to further investigate Wallace's murder. Teaming up with Fred Miller, Poole compiles a list of persons of interest tied to both the murder and gang activities.

The investigation reveals a tangled lineage of corruption, linking LAPD officer David Mack, who provided security for Wallace, to a bank robbery and gang affiliations. Poole's findings incrementally expose a network of corruption within the LAPD.

During the investigation, Poole witnesses Officer Rafael Pérez engage in illegal activity. In a dramatic turn of events, Poole intervenes and shoots Pérez in self-defense, shaking the already unstable foundation of the LAPD.

As Poole prepares to testify against Frank Lyga in a civil trial, aiming to expose the LAPD’s involvement in Wallace's murder, tensions rise. However, just before the trial begins, the city opts to settle out of court which tarnishes Lyga's reputation.

Voletta Wallace, Christopher's mother, makes significant strides in her wrongful death claim. With Poole's assistance, she initially names suspects but faces setbacks as the LAPD and FBI absolve key individuals, leaving doubts lingering.

Poole's relentless pursuit of justice ultimately leads him to resign just months before retirement, leaving him without a pension. The personal sacrifices he made raise questions about his legacy within the LAPD and the justice system.

In an unexpected turn, Darius Jackson allies with Voletta Wallace to pursue justice for her son. They share a moment of reconciliation where Jackson apologizes for a past article that wrongfully implicated Wallace's son in another murder.

Despite his commitment, Poole tragically suffers a heart attack, leaving behind an impactful legacy of heroism that went unrecognized. His dedication becomes a focal point for Jackson, deeply influencing his subsequent work.

In homage to Poole's efforts, Jackson writes an article detailing Poole's investigations, which gains him significant recognition. This piece not only honors Poole's legacy but also highlights the systemic failures in the pursuit of justice.

Amidst increasing recognition, Jackson grapples with a growing disenchantment towards the establishment. Reflecting on the injustices that allowed Poole's contributions to fade, he ultimately resigns from his position, seeking moral clarity.

As nearly three decades pass since Wallace's and Tupac's murders, both families continue to seek closure amid a justice system riddled with failures. The unresolved nature of these cases remains a painful reminder of the struggles they faced.