Can't really blame Dan for reaching the wrong conclusion, given the context of the thread.
But, thanks for reminding us of this iconic film. The late great Rod Steiger at his best.
The best bit is where Tibbs return-slaps Endicott. Pivotal. Considering the film was based in the South and made at the height of the civil rights movement.
Pity is the US does not seem to have moved on much in the over 50 years since.