The body of wealthy real estate magnate Gerd Wesibach is found, his pores emanating a familiar odor of bitter almonds. At first his death is thought to be assisted suicide, but it is soon discovered that he was poisoned. Ballauf and Schenk have a long list of suspects and soon uncover a dubious euthanasia ring.

A blackmailer has been threatening the Kolsch brewery in Cologne. Concerned with the company's reputation Belcher Sr decides to pay the ransom in person, and is soon shot dead. But when the blackmailer demands a higher ransom and poisons the beer, Ballauf and Schenk suspect they're dealing with a copycat offender.

A man is shot to death in broad daylight on a busy street in Cologne. However, no shots were heard. When a second man is shot dead in similar circumstances Ballauf and Schenk suspect they are dealing with a skilled assassin.

On a family trip to Holland Freddy finds himself accused of drug smuggling and is forced to go on the run to clear his name.