Ep 1. Loogie Nights

In the season 7 premiere of NYPD Blue, entitled "Loogie Nights," the squad at the 15th precinct is called to investigate the brutal assault of a college student. As Det. Andy Sipowicz is on the scene, he discovers that the victim was a member of the Gamma Beta fraternity, and Sipowicz's own son was a member of the same fraternity at a different school.

Meanwhile, Det. Diane Russell is dealing with her own personal issues as her estranged husband, Inspector Daryll Ceivers, returns to NYC after getting shot while working in Las Vegas. The pair have a rocky relationship, and Russell is unsure if she should let him stay with her while he recovers.

As the investigation into the assault continues, Sipowicz and his partner, Det. John Clark, Jr., question members of the fraternity, including the victim's close friend, who is reluctant to give up information. Sipowicz discovers a potential suspect who had previously been arrested for a similar assault, and the detectives work to build a case against him.

Elsewhere in the precinct, Lt. Arthur Fancy is dealing with budget cuts that are forcing him to make difficult decisions about which members of the squad to lay off. This creates tension between the officers who are vying to keep their jobs.

As the episode progresses, the investigation takes a surprising turn as Sipowicz's personal connection to the case comes to light, and the team is forced to confront some uncomfortable truths.

"Loogie Nights" is a gripping episode that explores the themes of family, loyalty, and justice. The dynamic between Sipowicz and Clark is showcased, as they work together to solve the case while also dealing with personal issues. Russell's struggles add a layer of complexity to the episode, as she navigates her relationship with Ceivers and attempts to balance her personal life with her duties as a detective.

The police procedural format of the show is evident in this episode, as the detectives methodically work to solve the case, gathering evidence and building a case against the suspect. The use of flashbacks and personal connections between the characters add depth to the plot and make it more engaging.

Overall, "Loogie Nights" is an excellent season opener that sets the tone for the rest of the season. The storyline, characters, and themes are all well-developed, making it a must-watch for fans of the series.