The story follows the end of the previous season: After the murder of the governor of Hawaii, Steve McGarrett became the number one suspect and was temporarily detained in prison awaiting trial. Danny suddenly came to visit him with evidence that could clear his name. At the same time, Kono was suspended for inspection, and the Internal Affairs Investigation Department sent someone to conduct a comprehensive investigation of her. Terry O'Quinn plays Joe White, McGarrett's commander during his training with the Navy SEALs; Richard T. Jones plays Sam Denning, the new governor of Hawaii; and William Sadler plays McGarrett's father John McGarrett again.