After doubts arise concerning his handling of the Great Red-Legg'd Scissorman's arrest and the Red Riding Hood affair, he is suspended pending a mental health review.

Jack's troubles increase when the argumentative Punches move in next door and his son adopts a sly and sticky-fingered pet.

Meanwhile, the Gingerbreadman, the notorious murderous biscuit (or possibly cake, occasionally cookie) escapes custody, leaving a trail of bodies; Jack is frustrated when the case is given to an unimaginative officer outside NCD.

Jack begins to suspect the Gingerbreadman is a hired assassin and attempts to question the Quangle-Wangle, a reclusive industrialist.

This is illegal for bears to eat as well as marmalade, honey, and large amounts of porridge, as they have the same effect as drugs.