Ep 17. Speak For Yourself, Bruce Clayton

In NYPD Blue season 5 episode 17, titled "Speak For Yourself, Bruce Clayton", the episode focuses on the death of a former child star named Bruce Clayton who dies of an overdose.

The investigation leads the detectives to question Clayton's former co-star, Sabrina, who was also his girlfriend at the time of his death. Sabrina is resistant to talk about Clayton's drug use, but eventually reveals that he had become addicted to opioids in order to relieve his pain from a car accident, for which he had never received proper treatment.

Meanwhile, Sipowicz is dealing with his own issues as he continues to struggle with fatherhood and his relationship with his girlfriend, Abby. He seeks advice from a therapist and attempts to reconcile with Abby, but she tells him she needs time to think about their future.

The episode also features the return of Detective John Kelly, who left the squad in the previous season. Kelly offers to help the team with the case and begins to reconnect with Sipowicz.

As the investigation unfolds, the detectives discover that Sabrina had been blackmailing Clayton's doctor in exchange for more medication, leading to his death. Sabrina is arrested for drug trafficking and Kelly decides to stay on in New York, hinting at a possible return to the squad.

Overall, "Speak For Yourself, Bruce Clayton" tackles the issue of addiction and the dangerous consequences of prescription drug abuse. The episode also delves into the personal struggles of the characters, including Sipowicz's ongoing battle with fatherhood and Kelly's return to the squad. It is an emotionally charged episode that shows the human side of policing.