Based on shocking, but forgotten historical events. James, Ford, the local justice of the peace, runs a ferry from Kentucky to Illinois, but also a gang of river pirates. Wealthy travelers he sends to the Inn of his ally Billy Potts, who murders them. Local citizens, like Norman and Catherine Pierce, and Dr. Charles Webb hope that a trial will bring forth evidence against Ford but the judge throws the case out of court. And the other characters must decide whether to take the law into their own hands and execute Ford.