Mehcad Brooks left Law & Order after three seasons to explore other acting opportunities. His departure was mutual and amicable between Brooks and the show's creators. In the Season 25 premiere, it was revealed that his character, Detective Jalen Shaw, accepted a new job in Brooklyn at the 88th Precinct, which explains his absence from the 27th Precinct on the show. This exit was straightforward and did not involve dramatic storylines like death or intense drama, leaving open the possibility of his character returning in the future. Budget cuts in the series and Brooks' desire to pursue new projects also played roles in the decision.