A play about the law: those who keep it, those who break it and those who live off it. A Detective's Tale tells the detective's view of a crime. Detective Inspector Fred Pyle is determined to get a result following a bungled raid on a supermarket - even to the extent of 'fitting-up' someone, if it is in Pyle's interest to do so.

Jack Lynn is arrested in connection with the armed robbery. Pyle is determined to get the evidence he needs to secure a conviction.

Solicitor Alex Gladwell, brought in to represent Jack Lynn, will use any means to get his client off.

Lynn is sent down, but rehabilitation is not on the agenda.