The recent developments surrounding Sheriff Gordo Sena raise intriguing questions about his knowledge regarding the fate of B.J. Vines before the premiere of Dark Winds Season 3. In the explosive conclusion of Season 2, protagonist Joe Leaphorn was overwhelmed with anger and despair upon learning that B.J. Vines, the man responsible for his son’s murder, had been granted bail. In a moment of desperation, Joe abducted Vines and left him in the desert. Although this act initially suggested a potential murder, Joe ultimately chose to abandon Vines, mirroring the harrowing ordeal known as The Long Walk, which had been historically imposed on the Navajo people.
While Joe refrained from taking Vines’ life, the repercussions of his choice have haunted him, creating a thread of regret that leads to a looming investigation. Throughout Season 3, Joe has been plagued by eerie visions of the Ye’iitsoh entity and the dead body of B.J. Vines. Notably, he has kept this dark secret to himself, but Sheriff Gordo Sena, one of the few individuals Joe can confide in, seems aware of the truth. Gordo’s role in Joe’s life during this turbulent period is critical as he attempts to help Joe manage his spiraling emotions.
Gordo’s Awareness of Joe’s Actions Against BJ Vines
Implicit Understanding
Evidently, Sheriff Gordo has possessed an understanding of Joe’s involvement in B.J. Vines’ disappearance for some time. During the Season 2 finale, Gordo visited Joe to announce his retirement and subtly indicated he might suspect Joe’s connection to the case. His approach seemed more like a strategy to assess Joe’s true emotions, while also leaving room for plausible deniability. Gordo’s demeanor at that moment indicated a reluctance to confront the unpleasant reality directly.
As Season 3 unfolds, Gordo has adopted a more forthright attitude. Although he refrains from explicitly voicing his knowledge, his dialogues with Joe suggest an implicit acknowledgment of the situation. Joe, recognizing this shared understanding, regularly updates Gordo about FBI Agent Sylvia Washington’s inquiries, solidifying their silent complicity in this matter without needing to put it into words.
The Impact of Joe’s Guilt on Gordo’s Behavior
Shielding Each Other from Consequences
Throughout the season, Gordo has consistently insisted that neither he nor Joe possesses any knowledge about the whereabouts of B.J. Vines. His responses during conversations serve to remind Joe to maintain a calm exterior. In a notable exchange, when Joe mentions Agent Sylvia Washington’s interest in the case, Gordo deftly reiterates, “Ain’t nothing to look into. B.J. Vines is gone. And for good reason, you and I both know that, Joe.” His carefully chosen words hint at their shared understanding, creating a façade of ignorance while protecting them both from potential fallout.
As the series progresses, Joe’s struggle with guilt becomes increasingly apparent. Each time he broaches the topic, Gordo maintains his composure, skillfully steering their discussions away from incriminating territory. By doing so, Gordo helps Joe navigate his tumultuous feelings, reinforcing the idea that no wrongdoing occurred. Gordo is acutely aware of the implications of their actions, and as a law enforcement officer, he understands the importance of plausible deniability. If Agent Washington fails to find tangible evidence, Joe may avoid legal repercussions—but this hinges on Joe’s ability to refrain from self-incrimination.
The Broad Consequences of Joe’s Choice
Ramifications Beyond Joe
Joe’s decision has far-reaching implications that extend beyond his own predicament. Emma, intrinsically connected to the fallout as Joe’s partner, experiences justified outrage upon discovering his actions toward B.J. Vines. Joe’s unilateral decision, made in secrecy and without her input, not only violated their shared beliefs but also poses significant risks to Emma’s legal standing.
Although Gordo might seem immune from direct legal repercussions, his past involvement in the investigation means he will inevitably find himself entangled in Agent Washington’s inquiries. Being Joe’s equal in the local police department subjects him to questioning, forcing him into a dilemma where he must choose between loyalty to Joe and safeguarding his own interests. In Dark Winds Season 3, Gordo’s character emerges as the one embodying rationality amidst chaos.