Dope Thief Episode 4 recap: The war of survival begins

Dope Thief
Dope Thief Episode 4 is out (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)

The Apple TV drama Dope Thief is based on Dennis Tafoya's 2009 novel by the same name. Directed by Peter Craig, the first two episodes dropped on March 14, 2025, where two best friends, Ray Driscoll and Manny Carvalho, were introduced to the audience.

Unlike typical friends who help each other grow and choose the right path in life, Ray and Manny excel in exploiting their street smarts. They impersonate DEA agents to rob less influential drug dealers.

They began by targeting youngsters under the influence of drugs, but ended up being disappointed as they managed to steal only a small amount of money. At the same time Ray's adoptive mother urgently requires money, for which he plans a high-stakes meth lab heist.

Their situation soon spirals out of control as an ex-con man Rick, dies. A massive explosion also puts Ray and Manny's life at risk but they mange to escape with cash and meth.

The duo's problems escalate when a mysterious caller warns them about stealing the drug. At the same time, undercover agent Mina makes it out alive of the explosion at the lab and informs her team about the crime.

Keep reading to explore what happened in the latest Dope Thief episode on Apple TV+.


Dope Thief Episode 4 recap: Mina's past takes center stage

Mina and Jack in the past (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)
Mina and Jack in the past (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)

As seen in the previous episodes, Ray sees Mina as a struggling woman. But in reality, she's an undercover agent determined to expose the criminals behind the explosion and Rick's death. The narrative continues in Dope Thief Episode 4, Philadelphia Lawyer, in which her past comes into focus.

As the episode begins, a flashback scene reveals Mina's troubled past with her former partner, Jack. Before Episode 4, all that viewers knew about Jack was that Mina hates him, and now we finally know why.

It's revealed that a few months before the meth lab heist, Jack was involved in an unauthorized undercover operation. The worst part? He wasn't just reckless but also manipulative. While dating Mina, he cleverly pulled her into his dangerous schemes.

Later in Dope Thief Episode 4, Jack opens up about the changes in the drug trade. Post COVID-19, cartels started relying on biker gangs to smuggle liquid meth. This is when Jack considered it an opportunity to expose the criminals on his own.

However, Jack's plan eventually backfired and resulted in his death. Now, Mina feels obliged to finish what Jack started, even if it requires putting her life at risk.

Also Read: The Righteous Gemstones Season 3 recap: Everything you need to know ahead of the final season premiere


Mina sets out on a hunt for Ray in Dope Thief Episode 4

Mina wants to put Ray behind bars (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)
Mina wants to put Ray behind bars (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)

Dope Thief Episode 4 has made one thing clear— Mina isn't just seeking justice, but also revenge. She remembers how Jack's obsession got him killed, and now she must waste no time in finding Ray Driscoll.

Mina has discovered that Ray faked being a DEA agent and was the one who shot her during the meth lab robbery. While Ray's scam turned out to be life-threatening for him, it's also a huge embarrassment for the real DEA.

If the world finds out that a low-level criminal robbed many by just pretending to be DEA agents, it would hurt their reputation. This is why Mina is doing everything to track down Ray in Dope Thief.


Ray tried hard to control Manny during their hideout

The two friends comfort each other (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)
The two friends comfort each other (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)

While the actual undercover agents and the ruthless cartel are hot on Manny and Ray's heels, the friends are hiding out in a motel. Every minute that goes by, Manny is getting more and more agitated because of his guilt and withdrawal from drugs.

Even when Ray is constantly watching over him, it does not become any easier for him. He further realizes that Manny's bonding with his fiancée, Sherry, is only worsening it.

Ray always disapproved of Sherry's influence on Manny but desired to see his closest friend happy. In Dope Thief Episode 4, Ray chooses to drive Manny and Sherry apart. He thinks that keeping away from Sherry will not only keep her safe but also allow Manny to concentrate on their survival.


Chaos erupts in Dope Thief Episode 4

A gunfight puts everyone's life in danger (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)
A gunfight puts everyone's life in danger (Image Source: Apple TV+ Press)

As the Dope Thief episode continues, the biker gang launches an attack on Manny and Ray's allies. The chaos results in a gunfight, and a new player named Cyrus steps into the picture. While the episode doesn't extensively cover his background, it's evident that Cyrus is a dangerous and unpredictable man.

The episode comes to an end with Ray showing up at a bar to meet lawyer Michelle. He wants to smooth things over but soon realizes that the DEA is waiting for him. Michelle signals him to leave as if there were another option for the low-level criminal.


Also Read: Grey's Anatomy Season 21 Episode 12 recap: Koracick steals Meredith's spotlight

Continue exploring SoapCentral for regular updates on TV series, films, and more!

Edited by Alisha Khan
comments icon

What's your opinion?
Newest
Best
Oldest