Due to charges of using excessive force in apprehending criminals, homicide Detective, Katy Mahoney, is transferred to the ""Matron Squad"" in order to keep her badge. While following up on Paquito, a young boy she caught shop-lifting, Katy discovers the multiple homicide of two young women and some children. While investigating the murders, Det. Mahoney is discovers a connection to a family trafficking cocaine, which she investigates in spite of her superior having pulled her off the case.

After a woman is murdered at a housing project known as ""The Heights"" Katy learns that Alvin Banger and his gang have the tenants living in fear. They have kids stealing from stores and people's homes and use the Heights as their base of operations. Katy becomes determined to break up Banger's empire

As a war escalates between two street gangs, The Latin Lords and The Demons, Tommy and Julie find love. Unfortunately each is related to members of the opposing gangs. Katy encourages Tommy to make the right choices, which might make it possible for the star-crossed lovers to have a future together.

The niece of Lt. Terry McNichols becomes involved with a hoodlum who is planning a major theft.