Dave Burke, a computer security expert, discovers that someone is attacking a business that belongs to Jack Neri, his girlfriend Jennifer's father. Dave tells Neri about this and agrees to help Neri solve the problem. Soon after, he learns that Neri is a minor kingpin in Brooklyn organized crime. Other organized crime figures learn of Dave's involvement and want to end his investigations for their own reasons. This results in terrifying attempts on Dave's life and changes in his personality that astound his friends.

Dave's desire for retribution draws him farther into the mob's business until he must make life-changing moral decisions. These are further complicated by his attachment to Jennifer and her family, causing all alternatives to come with a wrenching personal cost.