Alison DiLaurentis, the enigmatic queen bee of Rosewood, spent a significant period under suspicion and later incarceration in the hit series Pretty Little Liars. She is finally released from jail in Season 5, Episode 5, titled “Miss Me x 100”. This episode marks a pivotal turning point in the show, shifting the dynamic and forcing viewers to reconsider everything they thought they knew about Alison’s past and future.
The Context of Alison’s Arrest and Trial
Before we delve into the specifics of Alison’s release, understanding the events leading up to her imprisonment is crucial. Alison spent years presumed dead, but she was, in fact, in hiding, evading the mysterious “A” who relentlessly tormented her and her friends. Upon her return to Rosewood, she was almost immediately arrested for the murder of Mona Vanderwaal. This accusation was largely fueled by incriminating evidence planted by “A,” painting a convincing picture of Alison as the perpetrator.
The trial was a whirlwind of accusations, shifting alliances, and shocking revelations. While the Liars initially rallied behind Alison, her manipulative tendencies and questionable past made it difficult for them to fully trust her. The prosecution built a strong case, focusing on Alison’s history of deception and her possible motive for wanting Mona dead. The climax of the trial arrived when Hanna Marin, under duress from “A,” was forced to provide testimony that implicated Alison in Mona’s murder. This devastating betrayal nearly sealed Alison’s fate.
“Miss Me x 100”: The Turning Point
“Miss Me x 100” opens with Alison still incarcerated, awaiting the final verdict of her trial. However, a series of events occur that ultimately lead to her release. These include the discovery of evidence pointing towards a different suspect, and crucially, the fact that Mona Vanderwaal, though initially believed dead, had faked her own death.
The episode hinges on the revelation that Mona meticulously planned her disappearance with the help of Alison’s twin sister, Charlotte DiLaurentis (CeCe Drake), who was later revealed to be “A.” This elaborate scheme was designed to frame Alison and manipulate the Liars. Mona’s staged death, coupled with Charlotte’s manipulation, created a web of lies that entangled everyone involved.
Upon learning that Mona was alive, the prosecution’s case against Alison crumbled. The evidence that once seemed so damning was now cast in a new light, revealing a conspiracy orchestrated by Mona and Charlotte. With Mona’s reappearance and her confession of staging her own death, the judge was forced to drop all charges against Alison, paving the way for her release.
The Aftermath of Alison’s Release
Alison’s release from jail was not a fairytale ending. While she was finally free from legal persecution, she faced a new set of challenges. She had to navigate the complex relationships with the Liars, who were still struggling to trust her after years of lies and manipulation. She also had to contend with the continued threat of “A,” who now had a new agenda and a renewed focus on tormenting Alison and her friends.
Furthermore, Alison’s reputation was irrevocably damaged. The accusations and the trial had tainted her image in the eyes of the Rosewood community. She had to work to rebuild her life and regain the trust of those she had hurt. Her release marked the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with uncertainty, danger, and the constant struggle to uncover the truth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Alison DiLaurentis’s imprisonment and release, providing deeper insights into the complexities of her situation:
What was Alison initially arrested for?
Alison was arrested for the murder of Mona Vanderwaal. The evidence, primarily planted by “A,” strongly suggested Alison’s involvement in Mona’s disappearance and presumed death.
How long was Alison in jail before her release?
Alison was in jail for a relatively short period, roughly a few weeks, during the initial stages of her trial in Season 5. The rapid unraveling of the conspiracy surrounding Mona’s disappearance expedited her release.
What role did Mona’s “death” play in Alison’s arrest?
Mona’s staged death was the central piece of evidence used to implicate Alison. “A” manipulated the scene to make it appear as though Alison was responsible, planting evidence and manipulating witnesses. Without Mona’s presumed death, the case against Alison would have been significantly weaker.
How did Hanna’s testimony affect Alison’s trial?
Hanna’s testimony was a major blow to Alison’s defense. Under pressure from “A,” Hanna was forced to provide false testimony that suggested Alison had admitted to hurting Mona. This testimony painted Alison in a very negative light and further solidified the prosecution’s case.
What was the motive behind framing Alison for Mona’s murder?
The motive behind framing Alison was multifaceted. For “A” (Charlotte), it was about punishing Alison for her perceived wrongs and manipulating the Liars. For Mona, it was part of a larger scheme to expose “A” and protect herself and her friends, albeit through drastic measures. Power and control were key motivators for both Charlotte and Mona.
What evidence ultimately led to Alison’s release?
The discovery that Mona was alive and had faked her death was the pivotal piece of evidence that led to Alison’s release. This revelation completely undermined the prosecution’s case and exposed the elaborate conspiracy orchestrated by Mona and Charlotte.
Did the Liars believe Alison was innocent?
The Liars had mixed feelings about Alison’s innocence. While they wanted to believe her, her history of lies and manipulation made it difficult to fully trust her. Their beliefs fluctuated throughout the trial as new evidence emerged and their loyalties were tested. Their wavering trust highlighted the complex dynamic between Alison and her friends.
How did Alison’s family react to her imprisonment?
Alison’s family, particularly her mother, Jessica DiLaurentis, was deeply concerned and supportive of Alison. However, their support was often complicated by their own secrets and involvement in the larger conspiracy surrounding Alison’s disappearance. Their support was a mix of genuine affection and self-preservation.
What was Alison’s mental state after being released from jail?
Alison was understandably shaken by her imprisonment. She felt betrayed by those she thought she could trust and struggled to adjust to her newfound freedom. She was also deeply concerned about the continued threat of “A” and the safety of her friends. She was both relieved and traumatized by the experience.
Did Alison ever forgive Mona for framing her?
Alison’s relationship with Mona remained complex and fraught with tension even after her release. While they eventually formed a reluctant alliance to combat “A,” forgiveness was a long and arduous process. Their relationship was a constant balancing act between distrust and necessity.
How did Alison’s release impact her relationship with the Liars?
Alison’s release initially strained her relationship with the Liars. They were wary of her motives and unsure if they could truly trust her. Over time, however, they began to rebuild their friendship, realizing that they needed to work together to survive the constant threat of “A.” Their bond was forged in the fires of adversity.
What long-term consequences did Alison face after being released from jail?
Alison faced numerous long-term consequences, including a damaged reputation, lingering trust issues with the Liars, and the constant fear of being targeted by “A” or others seeking revenge. She also had to grapple with the psychological trauma of being falsely accused and imprisoned. Her life was forever changed by the events surrounding her arrest and trial.