What Do Actual Los Angeles County Sheriffs and Deputies Think of the TV Show?

When one expects a show written by a former LAPD officer, they typically set their expectations high. However, the actual experience with the TV show 'Los Angeles County Sheriff' has been quite disappointing. From the storyline to the dialogue, this portrayal of law enforcement in Los Angeles County leaves much to be desired. Here's an in-depth look at what actual sheriffs and deputies think of this police drama.

Plot and Storylines

One of the biggest failings of this show is the unrealistic and far-fetched storylines. The plot seems to take more inspiration from fantasy tales rather than the real world of law enforcement. For instance, the rapid transition from a recruit to a fully equipped patrol deputy in just three weeks is simply unbelievable. This includes graduating through a series of demanding tests and immediately jumping into the rigors of law enforcement. There are numerous issues with the plot, such as:

Fire a deputy because his father was killed in the line of duty for his own protection: Ridiculous. Having the same custody deputy walk through an open jail dorm area un noticed: Unlikely and dangerous. An inmate with visible tattoos walking out of jail because he's wearing a uniform: Unrealistic. Involving the FBI in a county-level kidnapping case: Overstepping jurisdiction issues. Rescuing a victim with a major tactical operation by the Sheriff, driver, and a detective: Lack of proper resource usage.

These unrealistic scenarios not only detract from the integrity of the show but also misrepresent the hard work and dedication of real law enforcement officers.

Dialogue and Dialogic Inconsistencies

The dialogue is perhaps the most grating aspect of the show. The clichés and over-the-top lines make it hard to believe that anyone in law enforcement would speak like this. Sentences such as 'I don’t work for you; I work for the benefit of mankind' are far too dramatic and unrealistic. Characters also use outdated dialogue and phrases that modern officers would find absurd. Corny lines and uncharacteristic interjections not only break the fourth wall but also draw attention away from the actual narrative.

Technical and Production Issues

Adding to the show's numerous shortcomings, the technical and production aspects are equally subpar. The sloppy editing, jiggly camera work, and overly rapid cuts create a poor viewing experience. These issues not only detract from the story but also make the show feel amateurish and lacking in professional production value.

Character Portrayals and Realism

Despite the numerous flaws, there are a few positive elements to acknowledge. The uniforms are depicted accurately, which is a small victory for those who care about the visual representation of law enforcement. However, the overall portrayal still feels far from realistic. Many deputies and officers find the show's depiction of their work and lifestyle to be highly exaggerated and even offensive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while 'Los Angeles County Sheriff' may have some positive intentions, its execution falls far short of expectations. The unrealistic storylines, overly corny dialogue, and subpar production values make it an unlikely candidate for popularity among law enforcement enthusiasts or general audiences. Future works catering to this demographic would do well to focus on accuracy and realism, enhancing the overall quality and appeal of the show.

Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the creators to balance creativity with realism, ensuring that their portrayals of law enforcement honor the dedication and hard work of those in the field. If this show cannot achieve that, it fails as both entertainment and educational material. For those who value accurate representations of law enforcement, this show is likely to leave a sour taste in the mouth.