The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez

Season: 1

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.

Documentary, Crime

1Wed, Feb 26, 2020

A Shock to the System

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.

2Wed, Feb 26, 2020

Evil in this Courtroom

With hundreds of witnesses and thousands of documents, the trial of Isauro Aguirre begins — with Deputy DA Jonathan Hatami seeking the death penalty.

3Wed, Feb 26, 2020

Failure at All Levels

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.

4Wed, Feb 26, 2020

Death Has Got Him by the Hand

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.

5Wed, Feb 26, 2020

Improper Regard or Indifference

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.

6Wed, Feb 26, 2020

Gabriel's Voice

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.