James Duff notes the theme for the second season of The Closer is partnership, first explored in this episode's show of unity and honor for a fallen comrade by the LAPD personnel present at the crime scene.
In the opening scene, a number of personnel were seen wearing navy blue jackets with an arm patch identifying them as Los Angeles Police, carrying a cross in the center. A green cross frequently appears on LAPD insignia, and represents safety.
Badges of rank parallel traditional military insignia. Assistant Chief Pope wears three stars, one fewer than LAPD Chief William Bratton. As a Deputy Chief, Brenda would wear two, and Taylor as Commander, one star. Ranks from Police Officer to Captain have a badge number for identification.
The evening Fritz and Brenda discuss moving in together, Fritz brings them salads for dinner, but tells Brenda he'd have picked up a pie at DuPar's if she hadn't sworn off sugar. DuPar's is a group of family restaurants in the LA area, known for their hearty, basic American cooking, their Sunday brunch and especially their pies. The original DuPar's is at 3rd and Fairfax, in the Los Angeles Farmer's Market.
The LAPD badge is oval in shape, considered innovative at the time it was adopted in 1940. It features a representation of LA City Hall and the city seal, as well as the officer's rank and badge number. The black bands worn across the officers badges are a traditional sign of mourning on the part of many police departments.