THE SHIELD "Just Another Day" By Anthony Banks

Final Draft: June 10, 2011

RTVF 360-CN: Writing Television Drama Scot Abrahmson

TEASER EXT. LAPD HEADQUARTERS - PARKING LOT - DAY 1 ASST. CHIEF BEN GILROY is making a call while getting into his car. The scene is intercut with: INT. MACKEY HOME - KITCHEN - DAY 1 DET. VIC MACKEY is at the kitchen table eating breakfast. His wife CORRINE MACKEY is cleaning up the dishes while he makes faces at his laughing children, CASSIDY and MATT. The TV is on and the unseen narrator from the TV show, MITCH CARSON can be heard. CARSON (O.S.) ...and once the unit of corrupt officers was finally arrested last week, the citizens of South Central could finally breathe a sigh of relief. After years of living in fear of those who had supposedly sworn to protect them. They were truly free. VIC You really watching this crap...I mean stuff Corrine? CORRINE I dont usually watch True Impact, but I was flipping through the channels and saw this. I couldnt believe it Vic. Cops no better than criminals. Corrine shakes her head. Vic cuts her a look. CORRINE I dont know how you can trust anyone out there Vic. VIC I dont Corrine. I really dont. But, what really kills me is this prick is targeting cops. Instead of the scum he crying about! Can you believe of all people this guy. Do you remem..(CELL PHONE RINGS) Yeah? Mackey. Hello?

(CONTINUED)

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2.

Vic?

GILROY Vic, Its Ben.

Can you talk?

Hold on.

VIC Give me one sec.

VIC Babe, Shane is here. Im got to go. Ill talk to you later okay? She nods and Vic walks to each of the kids and plants a kiss on their foreheads. He kisses Corrine and jogs outside to his driveway. CORRINE Ill call you later on. EXT. MACKEY HOME - DRIVEWAY - DAY 1 VIC Okay sorry, go ahead Ben. going on? Whats

GILROY The Terry Crowley shooting looks like it may stir up some shit with the press. Get to the Barn so I can get you and Aceveda up to speed. Ill meet you in his office. Okay? VIC What Ben, just tell me now. Then we can decide what we need to tell Aceveda before you... GILROY Relax Vic, I think we just need to treat this as normal as possible right now. Especially after this South Central mess. Well just talk there okay? Yeah. way. VIC Yeah, sure Ben. Ill on my

Vic hangs up and goes numb to the world around him. An unmarked police SUV driven by DET. SHANE CANTRELL pulls up. He notices the unresponsive Vic.

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3.

SHANE Cool, youre already out here. Vic. Vic! You okay man? Vic quickly snaps back to reality and goes straight into an intense stare straight at Shane. VIC Yeah. Just got a feeling its gonna be one of those days. Hit the lights, we got to get to the Barn. INT. STRIKE TEAM SUV - DAY 1 SHANE Okay man, okay. Vic? Whats going on

VIC Nothings going on right now. Just get to the goddamn Barn to make sure it stays that way. Vic stares out the window as Shane peels off down the street and turns on the sirens. After several minutes of driving in silent Vics cell phone rings again. On the phone is another member of Strike Team CURTIS "LEMONHEAD" LEMANSKY who is on a street corner in a rough black neighborhood with RONNIE GARDOCKI. Theyre standing with MONTE(47, black ex-con and local fence). VIC Mackey here. Lem? Lem? LEMONHEAD (O.S.) Mack Man? Yeah, its me. Sorry to bother you this early but I was going around collecting this months Grove payments. So I see Monte and he played me some stuff I think you should hear. VIC Played something? Played what? game? What the hell are you talk... A

LEMONHEAD (O.S.) Songs Vic. A rap song man, well a couple of songs really. Anyway, good news first. Theres this dude (MORE) (CONTINUED)

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4.

LEMONHEAD (O.S.) (contd) going by M.C. 2-Bold. Anyway hes got a CD going around here on the underground circuit. Thats where that song we heard dissing the Toros came from, but theres this other one... VIC M.C. Too what? Are you telling me youre that worried about a stupid rap song! Are you kidding me? LEMONHEAD (O.S.) I wish I was Vic. You know how hot that shit made the Toros last month. But hey, listen man..Uhh, well Im just gonna say it, uhh this other song, I think its about you Vic. W..what? VIC Me? Did you just say me?

LEMONHEAD (O.S.) Yeah man, you heard me right. Its about a dirty cop and its called "Officer M.K.E." Do you want to hear some of it? Vic is floored and Shane wisely hides his amusement, pretending not to hear. VIC Do it Lem. Lemonhead puts the phone on speaker and motions to Monte to raise the volume on his CD player. A catchy beat filled with bass plays for a couple of seconds. Mackey overacts like hes in agony while listening while Shane laughs at him. Then a female voice starts singing the chorus,"Crooked as they come. Cracker gonna take some" over and over. LUTHER(O.S.) Dirty as mud, here come that swine... You got something, anything? Cracker cop gonna take some, every damn time! M.K.E with that fake ass badge... VIC Okay! Okay! Thats enough! Cut that shit off! Jesus! I dunno Lem (MORE) (CONTINUED)

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5.

VIC (contd) maybe.. Wait a minute, you know what though? I swear I know that voice. Shane looks at Vic for a beat and then nods agreement. think for a second before Lem interrupts again. LEMONHEAD (O.S.) Youre good Vic. It took me a couple of minutes to place it but Monte called it right off the bat. Its Luther, Vic. VIC Luther? Wait, our Luther? from The Grove? LEMONHEAD (O.S.) Yep. I heard it twice man. him alright. Luther They

Its

VIC That son of a bitch...That stupid son of a bitch! What the hell is he thinking? Im gonna split his goddamn skull for this. SHANE You know Luthers always been a loose screw Vic. He always said he used to be some kind of rapper. Cause his little buddy thats always there used to DJ and they... VIC I dont give a damn if he won a god-damn Grammy with Old Blue Eyes he knew what the hell he was doing. As soon as we leave the Barn Im going to pay that cocksucker a little visit and remix his fucking face... LEMONHEAD (O.S.) What do you want me to do Vic? VIC Lem, You just finish up collections, got it? When youre done head over to his place and if you beat us over there go ahead and (MORE) (CONTINUED)

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6.

VIC (contd) see where his head is at. And grab every copy of that crap you see. Say its for counterfeiting or some shit. LEMONHEAD (O.S.) Okay then, will do Vic. Talk to you later man. Vic hangs up and slams his fist into the dashboard in anger. He scowls at his phone and then dials another number. INT. LUTHERS APARTMENT - DAY 1 LUTHER ROBINSON(34, black arrogant and angry) sits in smoke filled apartment smoking blunt cigars filled with weed. He is playing his friend DAVE BRIAR (25, black immature and unfocused) in the Madden football video game on his large flat screen TV. His cell phone rings and he picks it up to see the caller I.D. say "MKE". He smiles and lets it keep ringing and continues to play the game. LUTHER Just like I thought. Hunh? Bitch ass...

DAVE Who? Who you talking about?

LUTHER Fucking Mackey,man. He know better than calling me this damn earl...Ohh! Touchdown motherfucker! Just too damn bold! Luther jumps up out of his seat screaming and throws down the cell phone and video game controller to the floor. Dave buries his head in his hands. LUTHER All you bitches gonna know your place this week! Now, wheres my goddamn belt? INT. STRIKE TEAM SUV - DAY 1 VIC What the hell made Luther think he could grow a set? Im gonna wring his neck like a goddamn (MORE) (CONTINUED)

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VIC (contd) cartoon. Is that a TV truck...What the hell is he doing here? SHANE Hey thats the guy from TV right? The one that did the show on those South Central cops right? Shanes questions once again go unanswered as Vics just stares ahead, lost in thought. EXT. THE BARN - MOTORPOOL - DAY 1

The SUV comes speeding down the street and turns into the parking lot next to the Barn with sirens blaring. Parked next to the entrance to the lot is a white mobile TV van with the words True Impact and photos of MITCH CARSON (58, white with salt and pepper hair and a weathered face)all over it. In front of the van Carson is standing with a mic in front of his cameraman, MARCO. CARSON Marco! Marco! There he is! Jesus are you ever ready? On three..two..one. Speed. Here is the man that has been the target of all these complaints is highly decorated Detective Victor Mackey. The success of his Strike Team has been well documented but these simple statistics hide a brutal truth. Thats why True Impact has come to Farmington. For the truth, once and for all. INT. STRIKE TEAM SUV - DAY 1 VIC See I told ya Shane. Its already been a day. Keep it running, this wont take long. END OF TEASER

8. MAIN CREDITS ACT I. INT. THE BARN - ACEVEDAS OFFICE - DAY 1 Vic storms into Acevedas office, knocking once as he opens the door. Inside already are Gilroy along with CAPT. DAVID ACEVEDA, DET. HOLLAND "DUTCH WAGENBACH, and DET. CLAUDETTE WYMS. GILROY We need to cut the black and whites in the Grove since this gang war has cooled down... Geez, finally Mackey. Did you see the news truck? VIC Sorry guys traffic was a bitch, but yeah I saw the truck and that prick Carson was outside running his mouth. Aceveda looks to Dutch and Claudette for a clue to what Vic and Gilroy are talking about but he can tell they are as clueless as he is. Carson? Carson? ACEVEDA The reporter Whats going on..

Gilroy cuts off Capt. Aceveda in mid-sentence. GILROY All of you listen, I got a tip from someone over at Channel Seven that True Impact is doing this weeks show on the Farmington district. CLAUDETTE Just like the South Central thing? This is going to be a nightmare. ACEVEDA But why would they target us in particular Chief? If anything the latest numbers have been trending upwards. David catches himself and everyone looks at Mackey. (CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: VIC What? Is it my aftershave? I havent done anything. Well anything new anyway. ACEVEDA Seriously, Is there something you need to tell us about Vic? So we can try to figure this out before everything blows up. DUTCH Like it did in South Central.

9.

Vic quickly cuts Dutch a look to punish him for speaking. VIC I got no skeletons Captain. My only problem is that this is Farmington and not Bel-Air but nobody wants to admit that. They just play stupid while people die on the streets. Im a real cop. You know old-fashioned policework. You all should try it sometime. Its good for the soul. ACEVEDA Thats no excuse for brutality and abuse Detective. You cant validate that kind of behavior Mackey. Ever. VIC Look, you have to break some eggs to make an omelet. Its about getting the job done. It just happens Im one hell of a cook. GILROY Enough you two, okay? The real problem is Mitch Carson and his cameraman are going to be following behind you and the Strike Team in their van for the next couple of days from what I understand. VIC (smiling) Great. Just fucking great. And what happens if this prick gets shot trying to follow me. I guess thats gonna be my fault too right? (CONTINUED)

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10.

GILROY Just be extra careful and smart Vic. For a change. Thats all Im saying. ACEVEDA Chief, do you want do see if we can.. GILROY Im afraid Ive got to go Captain. I will give you a call later if you need me to hold your hand through this because we dont need another controversy. ACEVEDA Yes sir. Everyone except Aceveda leaves the office. Mackey is following Gilroy out the corner or his eyes and follows him from a distance as Claudette and Dutch head for their desks. INT. THE BARN - DAY 1 Mackey quickly sees Gilroy alone and pulls him aside for a private conversation around a corner. VIC Ben, what the fuck was that? Why didnt you give me a heads up about Carson before I got here? GILROY After that disaster in South Central yesterday were trying to watch how we handle every situation from here on out. Didnt want to risk it over an unsecured line. VIC Unsecured line? What is this the C.I.A.? What if this lush Carson starts sniffing around Terrys case trying to find some more dirt? GILROY Dirt? He wouldnt have to look too long and hard around Farmington for some dirt on you would he? Look, I put my neck out for you Vic. I covered your ass now youve got to (MORE) (CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: GILROY (contd) cover mine. Give him something to chew on, just make sure he chokes. Do you understand me Vic? VIC You dont need to bark orders at me Ben. We been at this for almost twenty years. I know how this goes okay? GILROY Look, Im not any happier about this than you are Vic. So find a way to go out there and handle this or were all fucked. You brought this Crowley mess on yourself. Im doing you a favor Vic, not the other way around. Dont you forget that. Gilroy walks away and Mackey turns back toward the motorpool. EXT. THE BARN - MOTORPOOL - DAY 1

11.

Vic gets back into the still running SUV with Shane. Shane is watching the TV van with Carson and Marco now inside. SHANE Whatd they say Vic? VIC Nothing I didnt already know. Just like I said. Carsons gonna be on our ass now. Hes trying to dig up dirt on Terry. SHANE Terry! Oh shit man, this guys a bulldog. Hes gonna.. VIC Hes gonna wish he never heard the name Vic Mackey. Just drive. If its a real impact that he wants thats exactly what hes going to get. Were going to give him a front row seat to hell for the next couple of days. A call comes over the police radio.

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12.

POLICE DISPATCH(O.S.) Attention. All available units in zones three and five. Report of a 44-19 at 7899 Covington. Repeat a 44-19... EXT. CARSONS TV VAN - DAY 1 The same call can be heard on a police scanner inside of the TV van. Marco is waiting patiently behind the wheel, while Carson is writing some kind of note on a small notepad. POLICE DISPATCH(O.S.) Repeat a 44-19 at 7899 Covington. Available units please respond, over. MARCO Looks like hes back in and theyre moving Mr. Carson. CARSON Shh! Just trail them dammit! Im trying to get this narration right while its fresh. Stay behind them but make sure they see you. I want him to know were stepping in his every footprint. Before I really turn the screws. MARCO Yes, sir. EXT. STRIKE TEAM SUV - DAY 1 VIC Head to that address Shane. SHANE What addres? The burglary? Were really going to a burglary in the Grove? VIC Dont answer it. Just head there. This prick will follow us, trust me. We got to get him wet before we screw him.

(CONTINUED)

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13.

As the SUV pulls out of the lot, Shane hits the lights and sirens again. When passing Carsons TV van Vic sticks his hand out of the window and holds it up so Carson and Marco can see him giving them the finger and smiling. SHANE So what about Luther? VIC Well handle his ass later. After we shake Walter Cronkite here. SHANE Shit. More like a drunk ass Maury Povich. They both laugh as the the SUV speeds down the streets with the TV van trying to keep up behind. EXT. MARVIN FAMILY DRIVEWAY - DAY 1 Officer DANIELLE "DANNY" SOFER and Officer JULIEN LOWE answer the burglary call drive up to the home of LONNIE MARVIN,(elderly black woman 80s, big bright wig and baseaball hat). Lonnie is arguing with a younger neighbor, TAMIKA(24, black). Who is surrounded by several loud teenagers pointing and yelling at Lonnie. DANNY Hey relax! Everybody chill out. Whats happening here? JULIEN The rest of you guys need to back up, now. LONNIE This thieving little bitch and her dirty ass family done stole my stuff. TAMIKA Crazy old bitch, yous a motherfucking lie. DANNY Both of you just hold on. You called about a burglary. Is that correct?

(CONTINUED)

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LONNIE Yes Miss Policelady. I went to my doctors appointment and they must have seen me leave cause I was only gone a couple of hours. I came back and they had broke in the through the spare room window. TAMIKA Shes crazy. I didnt break into anywhere. Somebody else must have took her crap. I ought to but her out of her misery for stepping to me like that. LONNIE I been living here for nearly forty years. Then they moved in after Nelly died. Never thought Id see the day that you cant even be seen leaving the house now without getting robbed by your neighbor. TAMIKA Bitch I done told you to keep my name out of your mouth. DANNY Chill out right now! Im not going to give you another warning. Now Julien why dont you go inside with Ms...? LONNIE Marvin baby. Lonnie Marvin. DANNY Ms. Marvin and Ill stay out here and get their side of the story, okay? TAMIKA Aint no our side of the story. She just a goddamn lie, thats all. The Strike Team SUV pulls up with Shane and Mackey. The SUV drives almost through a group of youths gathered watching. They get out weapons drawn and the crowd begins to disperse quickly.

(CONTINUED)

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15.

VIC Okay! Okay! The partys over! Everybody go home. SHANE You alright up there Danny? DANNY What are you guys doing here? JULIEN Yeah, didnt you hear us answer the call? VIC Yeah, thats exactly why I came. We were close by and just wanted to make sure you guys were cool before we moved on. Vic stares at Danny the whole time and she glances and nods quickly as a unseen thank you. LONNIE Good, now then maybe yall can go up in there and get my things back while the pretty little white girl hold this bitch. Tamika lunges at Lonnie and all hell breaks loose on the driveway. Danny grabs Tamika forcefully while Julien protects Lonnie. As the teens with Tamika try to get involved Shane and Vic run up the driveway and violently pull them off and keep them back. Carsons van turns the corner and speeds up when they see the disturbance and parks behind the SUV. Oh, shit. SHANE Here he comes Vic.

DANNY Who comes? What? Is that a TV...You better be still before I cuff your ass! VIC Julien, get the old lady in the house now! Julien hurries Lonnie inside and then turns around and tries to help Shane and Vic keep the teens under control while Danny holds Tamika.

(CONTINUED)

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16.

TAMIKA Let me go bitch!

You hurting me!

DANNY Say one more thing and see what happens to you. Now them those kids to go in the house. EXT. CARSONS TV VAN - DAY 1 CARSON Go Marco! Hurry up and grab your camera. My God look at them beating on the children! Marco, you idiot! Hurry up before we miss the shot! EXT. MARVIN FAMILY DRIVEWAY - DAY 1 SHANE Sir, you need to get out of here before you get hurt! This is police business. DANNY Thats that reporter Carson. is he? Mackey? What

VIC Yeah, hes trailing me. Dont worry about it Danny. Ill handle him. DANNY We got enough headaches here Vic. Get him out of here. Marco gets his camera situated on his shoulder and Carson walks in front of him with a wireless mic. TAMIKA Talk to me Mr. Reporter, Ill tell all about these dirty ass cops. CARSON Is it on? I look okay? Lets go then. Countdown from three, two, one. This is Mitch Carson of True Impact. Im coming to you from the Farmington District of L.A. It literally took minutes for (MORE) (CONTINUED)

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17.

CARSON (contd) controvercial Det. Vic Mackey to be right at home pushing children to the ground and waving his firearm around like a toy. Vic walks right up behind Carson as the camera rolls. Marco smiles and doesnt give him any warning. Vic starts pointing and making faces behind Carsons back like hes drinking and drunk. VIC If you got something to ask me Mr. Carson, why dont you do it to my face? Carson turns, and is shocked but is a pro and keeps his composure. CARSON Det. Mackey! Glad you could join us and our audience. Couldnt find any cats to kick so pushing children had to do hunh? VIC You want something to put on tape you drunk. Ill give you something.. A lone gunshot rings out from the direction of the driveway shocking everyone. Everyone ducks down and scatters as the cops look around for the shooter. Tamika gets loose and runs away from Danny who is forced to take cover. Before they can find the source, more gunshots are heard coming from the street and other directions around the group as they stay low. VIC Everybody stay down! CARSON Jesus! Where are they? JULIEN Guys I see, I got one of the shooters. After the gunshots stop, the cops and TV crew slowly rise and look around and see Julien with his weapon drawn on Lonnie who is holding a small 22 caliber pistol.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: DANNY Lonnie, what did you do?

18.

Jesus. END OF ACT I. ACT II.

EXT. MARVIN FAMILY DRIVEWAY - DAY 1 JULIEN Put the gun down maam! LONNIE I just shot in the air baby, them other people... DANNY Put down the gun Lonnie! Lonnie starts crying, while slowly putting the gun down while realizing the trouble shes in. LONNIE Okay, okay. Im sorry. wanted my stuff back. I just

JULIEN Turn around and put your hands on your head maam. Please! CARSON Jesus Christ, It was the old lady. VIC Whats wrong Carson? Old ladies that need guns. Thats gonna be the video clip of the night I bet. Youve done it again genius. A piercing scream from inside of Tamikas house surprises everyone again. As Vic,Shane, and Danny approach the door with weapons drawn, Tamika comes out crying and screaming. TAMIKA Yall get some help! DeShawn been shot! Get the ambulance! DANNY Is it one of the kids? he? Where is

(CONTINUED)

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19.

TAMIKA He right there in the kitchen! Call some help! bleeding bad.

He

Danny goes in as a hysterical Tamika watches. Shane calls for a paramedic as Julien puts Ms. Marvin under arrest. Vic walks into Tamikas house to survey the scene while Carson and Marco are filming at the curb. CARSON And now violence has begat violence again. And an innocent child and an elderly victim both find their lives in ruin as the L.A.P.D. just stood beside them and watched the maelstrom swirl. EXT. UNMARKED POLICE CAR - DAY 1 The rest of Strike Team, Lemonhead and Ronnie pull in front of Luthers apartment building. They get out and go inside. INT. LUTHERS APARTMENT ELEVATOR - DAY 1 LEMONHEAD What does Vic want us to do with this prick? RONNIE Dont ask me, man. Im shocked he hasnt gotten over here and put his foot in Luthers ass himself yet. LEMONHEAD Hes busy with something. We can handle Luther easy. Hes all bark and no bite. RONNIE Hes been on the payroll too long man. Hes gettin all cocky cause hes not scared anymore. Time to remind him who the Boogeyman really is.

20.

INT. LUTHERS APARTMENT - DAY 1 Luther slowly answers the door in a smoke filled apartment after several minutes of loud knocking at the door. His friend Dave is unconcious on his couch from smoking way too much pot. LUTHER Comming man! Damn! Chill with that knocking man! Im coming! Who is it? Luther opens the door to a smiling Lemonhead whos hand is hanging in mid-air like he was about to knock again. LEMONHEAD Boy Luther. My hand was about to fall off out here. Whoa man, open a window. Geez.. LUTHER Man, I didnt know it was yall. What, uh whats up man? Im running a little low on loot for yall to be honest.. LEMONHEAD Dont act stupid Luther. We heard the song, 2-Bold. Vics pissed. What the fuck were you thinking? Luther looks confused. He lets Lemonhead and Ronnie in. Ronnie starts to walk around the place looking around and tossing anything he wants around. LUTHER Man, I dont know what you talking about... CURTIS Lem! Somebody else is here man! Theres a dude sleep in the living room. Curtis pulls out his gun on the still sleeping Dave. LEMONHEAD Dave something right? I remember him. Is that the one who Deejays? He must have helped you make that trash.

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LUTHER My boy Dave is good peoples man, he straight. Okay, okay I made a song but I didnt put my name or anybody elses in it. I was just working on my career like everybody else. LEMONHEAD (laughing) Is that what you really call it? Seriously? LUTHER (visibly angry) Yeah motherfucker. I just dropped my second demo. Shits on heavy rotation in them streets. If yall was as big in them streets as yall think you are, you would know that already though. But yall just wipe Mackeys ass so... Lem and Ronnie pause when they catch Luthers bold comment but dont acknowledge it. LEMONHEAD Im trying to help you Luther and keep Vic from coming to deal with this personally. Hes not as nice as me you know. LUTHER You know what? Im tired of all of yall shit. If yall aint got nothing else to talk about other than my hit song, yall can go. Tell Mackey to talk to me directly if he want to talk. Dont send no damn flunkies over here to mess my place up. Ronnie looks at Lemonhead who nods in understanding. RONNIE See, what did I tell you. LEMONHEAD You were right man. Okay Luther. Have it your way. know well be back right?

You

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LUTHER Whatever man. Just go catch up with Mackey so yall can go walk his dog or whatever yall do. Lemonhead and Ronnie leave without a scene. Luther is smiling when Dave finally stops acting like hes still asleep. DAVE You really think that was smart man? LUTHER Man, that was just perfect. Mackeys ass gonna get stung tonight. Just watch. EXT. MACKEY HOME - DRIVEWAY - DAY 1 As the paramedics arrive, Vic walks back outside holding a cordless house phone from Tamikas. He goes to Lowe and Sofers squad car where Lonnie is in the back seat. Carson notices the exchance and motions for Marco to focus on them. CARSON Zoom, zoom in dammit. Can you get them with the external boom? Jesus, do I have to tell you everything? VIC Hey there maam. right? Its Ms. Marvin

LONNIE Yes sir. You can call me Lonnie. Look Mr. Policeman, I didnt mean to shoot nobody, especially no baby. Thats why I shot in the air. VIC I know, and dont worry. Nobody under ten in that place is innocent. That so-called kid is fourteen already with a juvenile record. LONNIE He still a baby, though.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: VIC Is this your phone? LONNIE Yeah, thats mine! Thats the one that got stole today. Was it in there? I told yall. VIC Yeah, near a pile of whats probably the rest of your stuff. Everybodys so wrapped up with the shooting they forgot to hide your stuff. LONNIE Whats gonna happen to me Mr. Policeman? I dont want to go to jail. VIC Its too late for that Lonnie. Ill have some guys I know board it up until you get home. Danny and Julien will be watching over you and will tell you your options until you get booked at the station.

23.

Tamika comes storming out the house running toward Mackey and the policecar. Still crying, she has a large hammer in her hand. Danny notices her leave and she and Shane come out right after her. Carson is still trying to quietly capture it all before they take notice of him again. TAMIKA Im gonna kill that old bitch for shooting my brother! If he got to die, she got to die. VIC Whoa. Back it up, sister. Put the hammer down okay? Dont make this any worse than it already is. DANNY Put the hammer down Tamika! TAMIKA Im tired of yall just letting her say and do what she want cause she old as hell. That bitch shot DeShawn!

(CONTINUED)

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24.

VIC Look he needs you. Dont leave him at the moment he needs you the most. Were taking her to jail. Tonight. Dont think I didnt see her stuff all over your place. There are no winners tonight and no angels on either side of this. Stop while youre ahead and go help your brother. Tamika stops and stands numb for a beat. She turns around and drops the hammer walking and sobbing toward the exiting paramedics with DeShawn. While more squad cars arrive, Tamika escorts them into the ambulance. DANNY I would have never imagined how this would have turned out. Makes you wonder if its all worth it. VIC It is Danny. Dont ever think otherwise. If we hadnt been here shed probably be dead instead of under arrest. We did good. It still just stinks. DANNY What are you going to do about your number one fan over there? VIC I dont know yet. Maybe he can loan me his camera for a little while so we can make a movie or two. Other than that Im going to give him exactly what he wants. The other teens are rounded up by the new officers who also start taping off the house and yard. Julien and Shane return from doing inventory in Tamikas house. JULIEN Im all done bagging and tagging, Danny. We can go ahead and take Lonnie in to be booked. DANNY Okay great. Vic were headed back to the Barn. You?

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: VIC No, were gonna meet up with Lem and Ronnie in a little bit. How about her? DANNY I dont know Vic. Whats Aceveda gonna say when we bring in a little old lady to put in the cage? Vics cell phone rings and he answers. VIC Hes gonna say good job thats what. Ill catch up with you guys later. Lem? Yeah. He said what! Really? Okay. Okay. Everybodys gonna get what they want today. Ill take care of it myself Lem, dont worry. Shane, lets roll.

25.

Vic and Shane head toward the SUV but then Vic stops cold. He whispers something unheard to Shane. They both head to Carsons van, walking up behind him as he watches Marco load up the camera and equipment. Shane continues to walk past while Vic grabs Carsons arm. VIC So how did you like our first stop in hell prick? Im sure you spun that whole thing into it being our fault. CARSON The camera doesnt lie. So, therefore I assign no more blame than that which is due Detective. VIC (to Marco) Does he always talk like that? Or just when hes trying not to sound like Foster Brooks. Thats the great thing about doing stories in the hood Carson. Youre never too far from a liquor store. CARSON Well since you obviously grew up watching television you already know what you see on the screen and what really is are rarely, if ever, the same. (CONTINUED)

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26.

VIC I grew up watching Marshall Matt Dillion and other stuff like The Rifleman... Vics cellphone rings again. call. He looks at it and ignores the

VIC Youd be surprised how much things havent changed and still are the same. Just the names and colors of the faces change. CARSON Selling lies and half truths is American as apple pie Detective. I was in high school when I saw Peter Arnett reporting from Vietnam. I knew then thats what I wanted to do. Help powerless people expose what the real truth is. VIC So thats what you think youre doing here? Did you see what just happened here dipshit? This aint G.I.s running amok in Saigon. These are Americans killing Americans. Who exactly are you protecting? CARSON Them. All of them. Im protecting them from the likes of a corrupt police officer like you. And that my dear Detective is the best I can do. I know about all your complaints that miraculously disappear. Ive heard the rumors and whispers of you running the criminal underworld of Farmington with an iron fist. VIC You shouldnt believe everything you hear. Sooo was it a pink elephant that told you or was it Elvis? CARSON You can make light of my battles with alcohol all you want but know (MORE) (CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

27.

CARSON (contd) this. By sundown Tomorrow, youll be in cuffs like that poor old lady and your buddies in South Central. VIC Sundown hunh? Used up your quota of big words for the day? CARSON No, never. I just thought youd like that bit of cowboy lingo, partner. Shane quietly walks from behind Carsons truck and gets into the SUV. Marco notices but says nothing. Vic begins to walk to the SUV. VIC Well, pard. I reckon I better be getting out of here. I quess well see whatever you have tomorrow because youre not going anywhere else for a while. Vic gets in the SUV and Carson motions for Marco to get into the drivers seat and get ready to follow. Marco points toward the rear tires which are now flat. CARSON Lets go Marco. Hes trying to lose us again. Look, sir. MARCO I think he already has.

CARSON Mackey! You son-of-a-bitch! God dammit Marco! Did you see... EXT. STRIKE TEAM SUV - DAY 1 As the Strike Team SUV pulls away, Vic leans out the window and yells back to Carson. VIC I know a good blacksmith Carson. Go get some new horseshoes you dick!

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

28.

SHANE Good idea Mac-man.

Where to now?

VIC Luthers place. M.C. 2-Bold just went number one...with a bullet. END OF ACT II. ACT III. EXT. STRIKE TEAM SUV - DAY 1 Vic is hanging up his cellphone. VIC Yeah, okay then. See you there. Okay, Lem and Ronnie are doubling back now. They just left there about thirty minutes ago. SHANE So what was that crap Carson was talking about man. You think hes really got some dirt on you? VIC Hes got something or knows something. But not much. He didnt say anything about Terry. I know his type. He would have dropped a hint so he could show me how smart he is. SHANE Shit, man. Thats great then. was worried about this one. I

VIC So why would Ben say that hes working on something about Terry? SHANE Hell how would Carson even know. It was clean man. Nobody knows but us. Maybe Aceveda? VIC You forgot somebody Shane. Ben.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

29.

SHANE Why? Why would Gilroy put himself at risk like that? VIC Good question. Unless he wasnt at risk. I need to make a call to Reyes. SHANE The Toro leader? for? What the fuck

Shane looks confused at Vic but knows better than to ask for clarity. The anger in Vic is visible and building quickly. EXT. MARVIN FAMILY DRIVEWAY - NIGHT 1 Aceveda pulls up behind the still stranded Carson and Marco. Several more squad cars are still on the scene from the shooting earlier. CARSON What? Did he send you here to gloat? Hunh? sir? ACEVEDA What are you talking about

CARSON Dont be Coy. Youre the Captain right? Of the Farmington District. Starts with an A...Ahh ACEVEDA Aceveda. David Aceveda. And if you were talking about Vic Mackey, no we didnt talk at all. I heard you were still here at the scene over the radio. What happened? CARSON Mackey. That bastard had his servant let the air out of our tires and none of your fine officers could or would help. Aceveda walks to his trunk and pulls out a can of fix-a-flat.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

30.

ACEVEDA Sorry, sir. Its Mr. Carson right? CARSON Yes Captain. Call me Mitch. ACEVEDA Well, Mitch. I dont know if I have enough for both those but you can try. CARSON Marco! Go ahead and try to get them as even as possible. Aceveda nods to Marco, and hands him the can with a smile. CARSON So Captain, Im glad we had this chance meeting. I was curious about you. Really? ACEVEDA How so? What do you know?

CARSON I did my homework Captain. I know your record. Magna Cum Laude at U.S.C, record breaking score on the Sergeants Exam. I couldnt figure it out... ACEVEDA Figure what out what? CARSON Why you run a dirty shop. Why you let animals like Mackey run wild with no recourse. ACEVEDA Farmington is as clean, or dirty, as any other district in L.A. I dont run a dirty shop. My cops are decent hard working people. CARSON Not all of them. But I respect your loyalty and that whole code of silence bit. But you and I know Mackeys as crooked as they come.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: ACEVEDA You have proof of this? Or is this just more of your speculation? CARSON Lets just say I have someone who will expose the depths of his depravity once and for all. Marco shakes his head in disgust after hearing more of Carsons big words as he fills the tires with fluid. INT. THE BARN - NIGHT 1

31.

Danny and Julien are walking a cuffed Lonnie into booking. The onlookers gasp and comment to themselves while pointing. Lonnie has her head down and is crying and is embarassed. DANNY Buzz me Sarge! Okay, Lonnie. Im going to have Sarge here take you for pictures and fingerprints. Do you understand? LONNIE Yeah, baby. Im sorry. DANNY You dont have to apologize to me. Danny and Julien hand Lonnie over to Sarge and Danny is fighting back tears. Dutch and Claudette come up to them from behind in shock. CLAUDETTE Is that her? Yeah. JULIEN Shes almost ninety.

DUTCH Jesus. Theyre going to put her in there with the rest of those animals? CLAUDETTE God, I hope not. DANNY I cant believe all this. She couldnt have shot that kid. I know it.

32.

INT. LUTHERS APARTMENT - DAY 1 Vic is knocking at Luthers door with the rest of Strike Team on his side. Luther peeks out his peephole and is shocked to see Vic and the rest back so quickly. VIC Come on Luther. I see you in the damn peephole. Sorry I was busy earlier but I was busy being big in them streets. Cmon lets get this over with. Luther reluctantly opens the door. Dave is sitting in front of the TV with a video game controller in his hand. LEMONHEAD Look Ronnie. Dawn of the fucking dead! RONNIE Dude slow down on the weed. sleep like a racehorse. You Dave

Vic cuts Lemonhead and Ronnie a look and they shut up. is silent as usual. LUTHER Look Mackey, I was wrong to say them things to youre boys but I got pride too. I tried to do the right thing, but I got to do my thing man. If a bitch like Kern Little can get a record deal, I know I... VIC I know, I know..

Vic nods seeming to agree with Luther. Without warning Vic hits Luther from behind with the handle of his gun in the base of his skull. Luther yells out and drops immediately to his hands and knees in pain. As the rest of the team laughs at him, blood gushes out of back of his head. LUTHER Damn Mackey! What you doing man? You almost killed me dog! One of yall get me a towel from the bathroom man! My head is bleeding bad man. Hurry!

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

33.

Vic shakes his head and kicks Luther hard in the stomach. As Luther rolls around in his own blood, doubled over in pain Vic kneels down putting his knees in Luthers chest while holding his gun to Luthers head. VIC See Luther. Thats your problem man. Youre old man, but you still dont know how this all goes. We dont work for you. You work for us. This is your first, last, and only warning. Dont ever disrespect me or my team like this again. LUTHER (barely able to breathe) Agggh. Yeaaaa. Yeaaah! VIC Is that a yes? Luther nods a desperate yes. VIC No more rapping homie. For a matter a fact I want you to lay low for a while. Do you understand? Luther nods again as the blood coming out of his head becomes a full pool around his head. Vic and the team leave out the apartment door and it closes only for Vic to open it back up seconds later. VIC Yeah, I almost forgot. You might wanna have Dave here call somebody about that head of yours. Dont end up in the hospital either. Theyre not safe these days. You know, with paperwork, staph infections, and all that. You understand? Mackey closes the door again. Luther to his feet. DAVE You alright man? Dave grabs a towel and helps

Here..

LUTHER Fuck man! That motherfucker! Get my phone dog. Im calling that (MORE) (CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

34.

LUTHER (contd) reporter dude to do that shit right now! DAVE The interview? Now? Tonight?

LUTHER Yeah man. Right here! Get another damn towel! Goddamn! Mr. Carson, yeah this is M.C. 2-Bold. I got to do that shit tonight man. Right now! END OF ACT III.

ACT IV. INT. LUTHERS APARTMENT - NIGHT 1 Luther is cleaning himself up and is putting on his M.C. Bold outfit with airbrushed denim jacket and hooded sweatshirt and shades. Dave looks too make sure Luther isnt watching and makes a call. DAVE (whispering) Yeah, man. Okay. I got it. They on they way man. Ill see you then. Sangre right? Okay. Dave hangs up and makes another call and puts his cellphone down before hanging up. He then walks back into Luthers eyesight as Luthers cellphone rings out of sight. LUTHER Dave. Get that shit man. Hurry up, thats probably the reporter dude downstairs. Dave gets the cell phone and answers it. DAVE Yes? No sir, this is his friend Dave. Hes getting ready. Okay I got it. 1857 Hendricks. El Sangre. Got it sir. In one hour.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: LUTHER Is it him? Bring it in here man Ill talk to him. DAVE He gone already. He want you to meet him at this bar he like. He had to stop somewhere else right quick and cant make it here. I wrote down the address and name. LUTHER Fuck stupid ass. I wanted you just to give it to me. Alright, give that shit to me man. Im bout to go in a sec. An hour from blowing up dog! Finally its my time! EXT. CARSONS TV VAN - NIGHT 1 CARSON So be ready to put his face in shadow as much as possible. Well distort his voice in post. I had a feeling he couldnt wait until tomorrow. He said hes going to tell it all. You might even go perm if all this goes well. MARCO Thanks sir. I hope so. We should be there in around thirty minutes.

35.

INT.

EL SANGRE BAR - NIGHT 1

Luther walks into a crowded seedy bar with no windows and looks around for Carson. A BARTENDER sees him walks in and motions him over. BARTENDER You the rapper? Bold right? LUTHER Ha ha. Yeah, its me. 2-Bold. M.C.

BARTENDER The white guy said go into the VIP room in the back. You making a video or something. (CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: LUTHER Not, yet dog. Give me a week or so.

36.

Luther smiles and makes his way through the almost only Latino crowd to the back. A large bald guy is standing in front of the a black door with VIP in neon on it. He sees Luther and nods and lets him in. Luther is on top of the world as the the door closes behind him in the smoky room only lit by black light. LUTHER Mr. Carson? Where you at? Carson? Mr.

The main light comes on and Luther finds himself surrounded by 15-20 members of the Toro gang. REYES, the leader of the gang is sitting in between two latina girls smiling. REYES So you M.C. 2-Bold hunh? Airbrushed is played out homie. LUTHER Shit Reyes man. Its just make believe. You know a song, thats all. It dont mean nothing. REYES Tell that my the three guys that got shot last month by three niggas amped up on your piece of shit song. Reyes motions yes to the group and they all close in on Luther with punches and kicks as Luther screams for help. LUTHER Please Reyes man! Agg... Oh God! No!

REYES Yeah, 2-Bold. Looks like you just wrote your last fucking song. INT. LUTHERS APARTMENT - NIGHT 1 Carson and Marco is at Luthers apartment door knocking. Dave answers with sunglasses on. The place is filled with weed smoke and two girls in lingerie are smoking and laughing in the bedroom.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

37.

CARSON Uhh, M.C. 2-Bold? DAVE (imitating Luther) Yeah, dog. Its me. Come in man. Chill out. CARSON 2-Bold this is Marco. want us to set up? Where do you

Carson keeps looking out the corner of his eyes at the girls while talking to Dave. DAVE Bedroom. Its got the best light. I do a little filming in there from time to time. Sip something with me man. We about to be famous. CARSON No, thats okay I cant drink anymore. DAVE Cant drink? Or wont? Man I dont trust no motherfucker who dont sit and chill with you. We can just stop this shit right now then. CARSON Alright, alright. Just something light okay. Just wet my whistle. DAVE No problem dog. Denise come in here and make Mr. Carson a drink. Marco enters the bedroom as DENISE exits only wearing a lacy black bra and panties and Dave points to Carson. She smiles and him and he smiles back. She goes to the liquor cabinet and starts pouring. DAVE Light, Denise. before. Like I told you too

CARSON So are you sure youre ready to do this. A lot of people are scared (MORE) (CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

38.

CARSON (contd) to take on Vic Mackey. Im glad you have stepped up. DAVE If you know Mackey like I doyou know sometimes you have to do things you dont want. Feel me? Denise hands Carson the drink and he still is watching her like a hawk. Dave nods at him to go ahead and he takes a big gulp. DAVE Ha ha. See something you like there Mr. Carson? CARSON Agg! Whew! I dont think the young lady knows how to make it light. DAVE Yeah sorry, man. I dont keep them around for their bartending skills. Hey get rid of your boy for a bit man and Ill let you get a sample, or two. Carson is shocked only for a second and then smiles confidently. Marco! CARSON How is it going? Are you

MARCO Just about done sir. ready?

CARSON Yes. Do me a favor and wait in the truck for me until I call you. What? MARCO Sir, thats not smart.

CARSON Marco. Please, please stop thinking. Its not your strong suit. Hell keeping people in focus isnt your strong suit. Just go wait for me until I call you okay!

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

39.

MARCO Yes sir. Marco plugs up the camera and leaves out of the bedroom as the other girl waves bye-bye mockingly. CARSON I wont be long. I just need to prep 2-Bold here for the interview right quick. Sure sir. waiting. MARCO Ill be in the van,

Marco leaves out the door and Dave points Carson toward the bedroom. DAVE Okay ladies! Heres Mr. Famous like I promised! The women squeal and clap as Carson and Dave enter the bedroom. EXT. LUTHERS APARTMENT BUILDING - NIGHT 1 Marco is walks out of the front door into a lone Mackey leaning against the TV van. VIC Marco, right? Yeah. MARCO Can I help you officer?

VIC Sure. Just some quick questions with quick answers. MARCO Okay, shoot. VIC You work for the TV station or are you a freelancer. MARCO Freelance...sir.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

40.

VIC Do you hate Carson as much as I think you do. MARCO Yes... Yes, sir. VIC Would you like to make a lot of money and burn that arrogant prick Carson once and for all. MARCO Yes, sir! VIC So tell me Marco... Who do you know who loves a good scandal? INT. LUTHERS APARTMENT - NIGHT 1 Vic knocks on the door and Dave lets him in. VIC Where is he? Is he out yet? DAVE Almost. You was right Mackey, dude bit instantly. You should have seen him when that ruthie hit. He almost fell back with his dick out and everything. VIC Marcos going to come in here and take some pics and videos while hes out. Tell the girls to get in position. Girls you guys know the deal. Ill bail you two out in the morning. Cool? Marco comes in goes into the bedroom with Vic to find a drugged and barely concious Carson. He cant help but laugh at him as the girls hover around still smoking and drinking. DENISE You gonna party with us for a while Mackey before you go? Your friend fell asleep too quick!

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED: VIC Next time. I got to work tonight. Aint that right Mr. War reporter? CARSON (slurred speech) Im still...you cant get away..because. Damn, her skin is soft! Heh heh... VIC Who put you on me. or Gilroy. Was it Aceveda

41.

CARSON Wouldnt you like to know you bald, baldy...heh heh Baldy balls Vic grabs Carson by the throat and squeezes. VIC Sorry, I didnt hear you. CARSON Aggg! Gilroy! Agg... I found something about the Grove and he put me on you! I swear...(singing) Put me on her! Heh, heh. Please its the truth I swear. Vic lets him go as he falls to the floor laughing. to Marco to get going as he leaves. VIC Dave, clean all this up like I told you. Pack your things and Ill get you in the morning. Ive been taking care of you aint I? I keep my promises. Put that TV by the door too okay. INT. MOTEL ROOM - DAY 2 Carson opens his eyes to find police officers standing over him as he lies in a Luthers bed naked. Dave is gone but the girls are still there and being arrested as well. He is trying hard to focus but cant. POLICEMAN 1 is cuffing him. POLICEMAN 1 Youre under arrest for solicting prositution and possesion of a controlled substance. (CONTINUED) Vic nods

CONTINUED:

42.

CARSON Do, do you know who I am? POLICEMAN 1 No sir, but you have the right to remain silent. CARSON Where am I? I didnt do..Oh God wait.. POLICEMAN 1 Please sir put these pants on first. Policeman 1 helps a struggling Carson stand and put his pants on. While putting his leg in a bag of heroin falls out of one of the pockets. Carson and Policeman 1 look at each other for a beat in amazement. INT. THE BARN - HOLDING CELL - DAY 2 Later that morning, Carson is in the holding cell with his head in his hands still trying to get his mind right. Aceveda passes by and gets his attention. Mitch! ACEVEDA Mitch Carson.

CARSON Yeah, what? ACEVEDA Be careful what you wish for. Because you just might get it. I tried to warn you about playing with snakes. CARSON I should have known you were apart of this. ACEVEDA Im not, but Im not stupid either. Not anymore anyway. Aceveda exits and passes Vic coming in writing on a clipboard while whistling and drinking coffee. Vic smiles at Aceveda who just shakes his head at him without comment.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED:

43.

VIC Top of the morning to you, Carson! CARSON Fuck you Mackey! You did this!

VIC Cmon Carson youre more famous than ever. Youre all over this new website, T.M.I. Nude pictures, drugs, prositutes. Man some rough stuff. I heard Channel 7 already canned you but I aint sure. CARSON How? You bastard. bastard. You fucking

VIC The internet buddy. Its the future of journalism. I just helped you keep ahead of the curve. Now if youll excuse me Ive got to drop Lonnie off at home. CARSON The old lady? VIC Yeah the caliber of the bullet in the kid didnt match. Some good samaritan bailed her out. Dont you just love America? CARSON This isnt over Mackey. VIC Look behind you Carson. Yes it is. My name aint Victor for nothing. Cant wait for your report from behind bars. Tell your new boyfriend I said hi. Vic walks away whistling again while Carson stares at him from behind.

44.

EXT. MARVIN FAMILY DRIVEWAY - DAY 1 Dave is helping move the last of Luthers TV and other electronics from the back of the SUV into Lonnies house. Lonnie hugs Mackey. LONNIE Thank you for everything Mr. Policeman. The boy is going to stay here with me for a while then. VIC Yeah, hes a friend of mine. Hell call me if Tamika or anyone else around here give you any trouble okay? Yeah baby. thank you. LONNIE I dont know how to

VIC You already have. Ill see you soon. Dave! Im gone. Dave waves goodbye as Lonnie does the same. Mackey gets in the SUV and turns on Officer M.K.E. as loud as he can. He starts a humorous and exaggerated dance behind the wheel so everyone can see him as he drives away laughing. THE END