Investigating a bank armored car robbery, Chad is surprised to learn the driver guard is an old friend and ex-cop. The stolen bills start turning up at the racetrack, which leads Chad to yet another surprise.
The Christmas season brings the usual collection of muggers, shoplifters and pickpockets to the precinct, while Chad and Betty deal with an empty house as each of the kids enjoys a holiday trip.
A man ingratiates himself with Betty and the kids, telling them he's an old friend of Chad's. He's actually an ex-con who wants revenge on Chad for arresting him.
Chad joins a task force to take down some gun-runners, two of which are ex-cons with a grudge against him. Chad tries to keep news of this dangerous duty from the family while dealing with his own anxiety.
Cindy's friend Lynn seems to have it all with wealthy parents who lavish her with gifts. When Lynn runs away to find herself, Chad is assigned to the parents' missing persons report.
When someone begins an open season on the police force Betty worries more than usual. An unusual early morning phone call to Chad arouses Betty's instincts but she feels helpless to do anything.
Chad is used to his neighbors who consider him their private police force. But things turn personal when hippies rent a house on the block, and Chad is expected to be the spokesman to tell them they're not welcome.