Spare the Rod, Spoil the Bandit — Red Dead Redemption Mission Walkthrough
The events of this mission in Red Dead Redemption occur after eliminating Scott Bollard and freeing the hostages in Pike Basin.
Head to Marshal Johnson's office to talk to him. Watch the cutscene, from which you can understand that the law enforcer still has problems with bandits in the town.
Ride to Ridgewood Farm, following Johnson and his partners. On the way to this place, you will often encounter camps with victims that need to be inspected. Vultures flying around in the sky can be used as a way to detect corpses. Upon arrival, inspect the outbuilding, especially the area under the canopy near the entrance. Then follow the Marshal to the barn.
Opening the door, you will find a hanged woman, a lot of blood, and a girl who miraculously survived. From her, you will learn that the bandits who took these settlers hostage are in the farmhouse. Immediately after the dialogue, enemies will attack from behind. Get rid of them to save the farmers.
After clearing the area of hostile forces, approach the canopy you previously inspected to talk to the farmers. After finishing the dialogue, saddle your horse and follow the Marshal to further search for bandits. The locals directed you to the Mercer station, where you will find the bandits led by Bill Williamson.
Kill Bill's accomplices while hiding behind the brick wall, capturing one of them alive. It turns out to be Norman Dick, a local thug. He will later help you find the gang leader. As a result of completing the mission, you will receive +125 points in the Fame category and +100 points in the Honor category.