Tropes in this episode include:
- Crossover: This is the 2nd crossover event with Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. On SVU, there was a trio of women who were "trick rolling" men (targeting wealthy men, getting them drugged, and robbing them of their money and possessions). The problem was the trio was using a knockoff version of "Purple Magic" which was far deadlier, causing the death of 3 men, including Olivia's brother Simon. (Simon's wealthy friend hooked him up with the three to give him a good time and temporarily forget his troubles). It also caught the attention of Wheatley (who was making the original Purple Magic), who arranged for the crew making the knockoff drug to be wiped out.
- Hand Stomp: A non-edge example - Bell's nephew got caught up with police who were trying to chase some gang members on foot. The police assumed he was part of the group and take him down. When he tried to reach for his phone, one policeman stomps on his hand, crushing every single bone.
- O.O.C. Is Serious Business: Stabler gets a little rough with Bekher, and Bell (who is weary of Stabler's history with suspects) restrains Washburn and Morales from stopping him.
- Secret Test of Character: Wheatley visits Gina's apartment (which was unlisted but Wheatley had Gina followed). Wheatley comes on to her a bit, but Gina firmly states that she would not sleep with Wheatley at all and only cares for Richie.
- Wham Line: After discovering evidence that Bekher created the bomb used to kill Kathy, the OCB confronts him. Stabler gets a little rough with Bekher and demands why Wheatley wanted her dead.Bekher: He didn't give the order. Angela Wheatley did.
