Episode of Law + Order

I remember hearing a little about this trial when it happened and recalled it, when Law & Order did an episode with an officer's son involved in a case like this. Watching the episode, I wondered why L&O would use such a smug, smarmy actor to play the father/officer since the show tries to view the men in blue in a positive light. If I remember, that officer became involved with the ivestigation - as a friend of Lenny Briscoe,
Then I saw 'Reckless Indifference.' Seems like the actor (who usually plays less than reputable characters) under-played Farris Sr. Watching the documentary it was obvious that Farris Sr. was in total denial about what his son was involved in, before his death. Mr. Farris and the DA's portrayed the defendants as gang members and trouble-makers, because of what they were doing before the crime. What does Farris think his son and McLoren were doing?!? Reading the Bible and having milk and cookies? Doubt it.
IMHO Farris Sr. went overboard in his grief to blame others for his son's activities. Oh, Jim Jr. was involved with drug dealers (as a bodyguard)? Well, it must be these other kids' fault. As a member of LAPD, the revelation of Jim Jr.'s activities must have been embarassing. He also stated in the documentary that the 'gang' committed robbery at the fort. If it was robbery, doesn't that mean that Farris Jr. and McLoren were dealers? The 'gang' wasn't there to get McLoren's milk and cookies. Making the original activity a robbery was necessary to get the ancient 'Felony Murder' conviction.
I don't mean to be callous about the Farris's and their loss. Losing a son at that age is a tragedy. Just seems that the man is standing in an Egyptian river, concerning his son's activities.