Synanon begins to fall with a series of violent acts, tax issues, and a return to drinking. The Jonestown Massacre sways Sandy to escape with Cassidy.
Synanon begins to look more like a cult. Chuck's wife dies and the organization's principles are abandoned. Sandra and Ed divorce, splitting up the family.
Synanon rockets into a multimillion-dollar business. The school is founded, separating children from their parents. Cassidy is born.