Otis is a tough old bird. A product of an abusive father and a mother who never provided any love or affection, he's grown up a loner. Circumstances have placed him in difficult situations, even as a child. As a result, he's become somewhat hardened, a characteristic that has served him well as a Sheriff.

Deciding Otis could use some help, the City Council hires Freddie, a young man fresh out of the Police Academy. Idealistic and sensitive, Freddie is shocked by Otis's cavalier attitude, especially over the tragic death of a well-loved farmer, Clarence Rasmussen. Determined to be the best Deputy he can be, Freddie's decisions change Otis's life in the most unimaginable way.