Jax Teller confronts and ultimately kills Josh Kohn, Tara Knowles’ obsessive ex-boyfriend and stalker, in Season 1, Episode 9, “Hell Followed.” This pivotal moment marks a significant turning point in the series, solidifying Jax’s protective nature and escalating the conflict between the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club (SAMCRO) and law enforcement.
The Catalyst: Kohn’s Obsessive Return
The introduction of Josh Kohn, an ATF agent with a history of abusive behavior towards Tara, immediately injects a dangerous element into the narrative. His reappearance in Charming, ostensibly to investigate SAMCRO, is quickly revealed to be driven by a sinister desire to reclaim Tara, disrupting her burgeoning relationship with Jax and threatening her safety. Kohn’s actions quickly escalate from subtle harassment to overt stalking, creating a palpable sense of unease and setting the stage for the dramatic confrontation.
Unraveling Kohn’s Motives
Kohn’s pursuit of Tara isn’t just about rekindling a past relationship; it’s rooted in control and obsession. He sees Tara as his possession, incapable of moving on without him. This possessiveness is further fueled by his professional failures and personal insecurities. He manipulates his position as an ATF agent to gain access to Tara and gather information about SAMCRO, blurring the lines between his professional and personal vendettas.
The Escalation of Threat
As Kohn’s obsession intensifies, he resorts to increasingly dangerous tactics. He leverages his position within the ATF to intimidate Tara, using the threat of legal action and professional repercussions to isolate her. He also attempts to sabotage her relationship with Jax by planting seeds of doubt and suspicion. His relentless pursuit culminates in a violent assault on Tara, leaving her vulnerable and traumatized. This act of violence serves as the ultimate catalyst for Jax’s response.
“Hell Followed”: The Episode in Detail
“Hell Followed” is a pressure cooker of escalating tension. The episode meticulously builds towards the confrontation between Jax and Kohn, showcasing the growing desperation of Tara and the simmering rage of Jax. It’s not simply about revenge; it’s about protecting the woman he loves and upholding the principles of SAMCRO, which prioritize loyalty and defense of their own.
The Events Leading to the Confrontation
The episode meticulously details Kohn’s increasingly erratic behavior. He uses his position to surveil Tara, intercepts her calls, and plants evidence to incriminate her. The culmination of these actions is a violent physical assault, which leaves Tara fearing for her life. This assault is the final straw, pushing Jax to take matters into his own hands.
Jax’s Response and the Aftermath
Upon learning of Kohn’s attack on Tara, Jax’s rage is unleashed. He confronts Kohn at his motel room, a tense standoff ensues, culminating in Jax shooting and killing Kohn. This act, while driven by passion and a desire to protect Tara, has significant consequences for Jax and SAMCRO. It draws the attention of both local law enforcement and the ATF, further complicating their already precarious relationship with the authorities. The killing of Kohn also forces Jax to confront the darker aspects of his own nature and the consequences of his actions.
The Significance of Kohn’s Death
The death of Josh Kohn is a pivotal moment in Sons of Anarchy. It sets in motion a chain of events that significantly impact the lives of Jax, Tara, and the entire club. It highlights the themes of revenge, justice, and the cycle of violence that permeate the series.
Impact on Jax and Tara’s Relationship
While Kohn’s death ultimately removes the immediate threat to Tara, it also casts a shadow over her relationship with Jax. It highlights the dangers associated with his lifestyle and the lengths he is willing to go to protect her. This incident forces Tara to grapple with the morality of Jax’s actions and the potential consequences of being involved with SAMCRO.
The Larger Consequences for SAMCRO
The killing of an ATF agent, regardless of the circumstances, has significant repercussions for SAMCRO. It intensifies the scrutiny from law enforcement and makes them a target for federal investigation. This event also exposes the club’s vulnerability and the lengths they will go to protect their own. The Kohn situation contributes to the escalating conflict between SAMCRO and various law enforcement agencies throughout the series.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Kohn come back to Charming?
Kohn’s return wasn’t solely about investigating SAMCRO. While he used his position as an ATF agent as a guise, his primary motivation was to rekindle his relationship with Tara and exert control over her life. He was driven by an unhealthy obsession and a desire to reclaim what he believed he had lost.
2. How did Kohn use his position as an ATF agent to his advantage?
Kohn abused his authority by using ATF resources to track and surveil Tara. He accessed confidential information, planted evidence, and intimidated her with the threat of legal action, all under the guise of a legitimate investigation.
3. What was the significance of the crow in Kohn’s motel room?
The crow is a recurring symbol in Sons of Anarchy, often representing death and rebirth. In Kohn’s motel room, the presence of a dead crow foreshadows his own impending demise and the cycle of violence that consumes the characters.
4. Did Jax plan to kill Kohn from the beginning?
While Jax was clearly enraged by Kohn’s actions, the decision to kill him was likely not premeditated. It was a heat-of-the-moment reaction to the violence inflicted upon Tara and the immediate threat he posed. The intensity of the situation likely fueled Jax’s decision.
5. How did Tara react to Jax killing Kohn?
Tara was initially relieved that Kohn was gone, but she also experienced guilt and fear. She understood the potential consequences of Jax’s actions and the impact it would have on their lives. She also grappled with the moral implications of taking a life, even in self-defense or defense of another.
6. What were the immediate consequences of Kohn’s death for Jax?
Immediately after killing Kohn, Jax had to cover his tracks and dispose of the evidence. He relied on the help of SAMCRO to conceal his involvement and protect himself from law enforcement. This incident further solidified his commitment to the club and the sacrifices he was willing to make for its members.
7. How did Kohn’s death impact Agent Stahl’s investigation of SAMCRO?
Agent Stahl, another ATF agent, used Kohn’s death to her advantage in her pursuit of SAMCRO. She exploited the situation to gain leverage over Jax and other members, using the threat of arrest to manipulate them into becoming informants.
8. Was Kohn’s death justified?
The question of whether Kohn’s death was justified is a complex moral dilemma. While his actions were undeniably reprehensible and posed a significant threat to Tara, taking a life is a serious act with lasting consequences. The series explores the complexities of justice and the blurred lines between right and wrong in a world of violence and moral ambiguity.
9. How did the Kohn incident shape Tara’s character arc?
The Kohn incident had a profound impact on Tara’s character. It strengthened her resolve to protect herself and her future, but it also exposed her to the darker side of Jax’s world and the dangers of being involved with SAMCRO. It contributed to her growing internal conflict between her desire for a normal life and her love for Jax.
10. What were the long-term repercussions of Kohn’s death on SAMCRO’s relationship with the ATF?
Kohn’s death significantly damaged SAMCRO’s relationship with the ATF. It fueled their suspicion and distrust, leading to increased scrutiny and attempts to bring down the club. The event created a lasting animosity between the two entities, contributing to the ongoing conflict throughout the series.
11. Did Tara ever regret her relationship with Jax after the Kohn incident?
While Tara experienced moments of doubt and fear, she ultimately remained committed to Jax. She understood the risks involved in their relationship, but she also recognized the deep connection and love they shared. However, the Kohn incident contributed to her growing anxiety about her safety and the well-being of her unborn child.
12. What overall themes does the Kohn storyline explore in Sons of Anarchy?
The Kohn storyline explores themes of obsession, control, violence, justice, and the consequences of one’s actions. It delves into the complexities of relationships, the moral ambiguities of the outlaw lifestyle, and the cyclical nature of violence that permeates the series. It ultimately highlights the sacrifices and compromises that individuals make in the name of love and loyalty.