The Trials of Gabriel FernandezA tragedy that outraged a community. A failure that shocked the system.
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.
DirectorBrian Knappenberger
CreatorBrian Knappenberger
A Shock to the System
Feb 26, 2020
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.
Evil in this Courtroom
Feb 26, 2020
With hundreds of witnesses and thousands of documents, the trial of Isauro Aguirre begins — with Deputy DA Jonathan Hatami seeking the death penalty.
Failure at All Levels
Feb 26, 2020
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.
Death Has Got Him by the Hand
Feb 26, 2020
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.
Improper Regard or Indifference
Feb 26, 2020
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.
Gabriel's Voice
Feb 26, 2020
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.
