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This article contains spoilers for the Feb. 20 episode of “Law & Order: SVU.”
In a recent episode of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” Detective Joe Velasco, portrayed by Octavio Pisano, discovers that to effectively investigate a local rapist, he must build trust within the Washington Heights community, which has historically been suspicious of law enforcement.
Velasco’s dedication and efforts do not go unnoticed. At the episode’s conclusion, Captain Benson, played by Mariska Hargitay, commends him for demonstrating “command presence,” recognizing his growth and effectiveness in his role.
Initially, Velasco faces challenges connecting with his downstairs neighbor Danny, an enthusiastic young security guard played by Ethan Jones Romero. Danny’s eagerness leads him to take matters into his own hands, landing him in jail after he mistakenly assaults an innocent man, believing him to be the suspect. Despite the misstep, Danny’s insights about the neighborhood become invaluable to Velasco and assist in unraveling the case.
Pisano shared insights with TheWrap regarding his evolving role in the series, highlighting that both he and Velasco are finding their respective places within the established framework of the show. By the episode’s finale, Velasco helps Danny gain entry into an auxiliary police program, showing his commitment to community engagement.
In this episode, Velasco unexpectedly steps into a role model position.
Initially, his journey involved learning the intricacies of working in the Special Victims Unit compared to his prior experience in the gang and narcotics units. He evolves in understanding the importance of empathy towards victims, moving from a mindset shaped by an undercover background—where he often operated outside legal confines—to one that embraces the structure and moral obligations of the SVU.
How will his newfound community connection evolve his policing methods?
This arc highlights Velasco’s struggle with feelings of alienation, particularly within the Latino community. The complex dynamics stemming from historical conflicts in Latin America contribute to an internalized prejudice he initially harbors towards his own background. Through the case’s resolution, he confronts and reconciles these feelings, ultimately honoring his cultural heritage.
Is Velasco’s journey a way of confronting a denial of his Latino identity?
The immigrant experience often includes a desire to assimilate into a new culture, sometimes at the expense of one’s roots. Older generations may cling tightly to traditional values, creating a challenging dichotomy. The episode captures this struggle poignantly, especially as connections are forged across generations.
Are you a first-generation immigrant?
Yes, my situation parallels Velasco’s. My parents were in the U.S. when I was born but returned to Mexico, where I grew up until moving to the U.S. as a teenager. I’ve definitely navigated similar challenges of identity.
Velasco’s undercover past posed barriers to forming relationships.
His background with the cartel forced him into isolation, amplifying his social challenges. This episode symbolically allows Velasco to bridge that gap, connecting not only with the community but also connecting with both older and younger generations, ultimately helping him find his purpose as an officer.
He achieves a sense of command presence.
This term resonates deeply for him; although he might not fully grasp its weight, he appreciates that he has secured a favorable standing with Benson, which contrasts sharply with his earlier experience of being on the fringes.
Reflecting on your journey, Velasco’s acceptance has parallels to your own experience as an actor.
Joining a long-running show like this one is a test of compatibility and adaptability. Over the seasons, both the character and I underwent a process of proving our worth and establishing our roles, which has enriched our understanding of belonging.
“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” airs Thursdays on NBC at 9 p.m. and streams the next day on Peacock.
Source
www.thewrap.com