Instrument of Death

The theory goes that even under hypnosis people cannot be made to do things contrary to their morals. Mind control has fascinated both researchers and those bent on more nefarious intentions but Detective Ben Stillwater wonders if the consensus is wrong. Otherwise, why would the actions of ordinary people be so out-of-character in the commission of crimes, some of which are too heinous to be believed?

Dr. Jonas Reed is the only common thread but he has only treated the perpetrators for mundane reasons such as drug addiction and the like. To take a leap of faith that he is responsible for turning clients into blood-thirsty criminals stretches credibility, yet the evidence seems irrefutable.

Of course, Ben wants to disregard the facts because he too has been treated by the doctor for a sleeping disorder and he could be the next instrument of death.