A drug addict named Skeletor speaks in front of a video camera about his dark thoughts, including his desire for a “purification,” a way to free his hatred from other people. An unknown voice from the other end of the room tells Skeletor that he will soon have the chance to do so. In 2014, a revolt has led the government to be overthrown by the New Founding Fathers of America (NFFA) that take over the whole country.
NFFA members Arlo Sabian and Dr. May Updale announce an experiment to be held on Staten Island. This experiment consists in allowing for every 12-hour period to be allowed to citizens, including stealing or killing during this 12-hour period. During one night a year, citizens will be able to free up all their anger or dark thought without suffering any legal consequences.
Also, NFFAs provide $ 5,000 to citizens to hide from this “cleaning up” or as compensation for those who want to commit illegalities and do not have the opportunity. While people are fleeing Staten Island on the experiment night, Nya joins a group of friends, Dolores, Luisa and Selina, to wait for the night of purging to end. During the purge, Skeletor commits his first murder and the shooting made during the crime is viral. The NFFA notes that the crimes are quite minor this night, with murders rather rarity, most of which are acts of vandalism and thieves.