The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez — Season 1
A tragedy that outraged a community. A failure that shocked the system.
About this season
A boy’s brutal murder and the public trials of his guardians and social workers prompt questions about the system’s protection of vulnerable children.
Episodes (6)
1. A Shock to the System
9.3Aired 26 February 2020 • 47 min
Dark details of Gabriel's story come to light as a shadowy source from inside the DCFS suggests that his case wasn't handled properly.
2. Evil in this Courtroom
9.5Aired 26 February 2020 • 53 min
With hundreds of witnesses and thousands of documents, the trial of Isauro Aguirre begins — with Deputy DA Jonathan Hatami seeking the death penalty.
3. Failure at All Levels
9.5Aired 26 February 2020 • 63 min
Focus shifts to Gabriel's mother, Pearl, and the role she may have played in his death. Gabriel's teacher recounts a series of calls to child services.
4. Death Has Got Him by the Hand
8.5Aired 26 February 2020 • 56 min
At Isauro's trial, a former security guard details his attempts to help Gabriel that hit a dead end with social services and the sheriff's department.
5. Improper Regard or Indifference
9.5Aired 26 February 2020 • 51 min
The social workers fight to clear their names in court. Later, with the cameras turned off, Gabriel's siblings take the stand and give graphic testimony.
6. Gabriel's Voice
9.5Aired 26 February 2020 • 61 min
As LA County assesses the cracks of a broken system, the jury reaches a verdict in Isauro's case, and Pearl Fernandez has her day in court.