Corruption
Officer White is a corrupt cop who is considered by many to be a thug. He hates Exley for testifying against one of his friends who was also a corrupt cop. Exley uncovers massive corruption of high ranking officials being blackmailed using prostitutes they frequently visited. Smith intentionally shows White evidence of Exley having sex with Bracken to provoke and use him.
Ethics
Exley’s father was a respectable police officer who dedicated his life to being a great detective. Exley is now trying to live up to his father’s accomplishments. He is very intelligent and his work ethic is unmatched among his colleagues who are opposites. Exley decides to testify against his corrupt colleagues. He follows the rules and upholds all laws. Exley is even awarded medals for on duty bravery.
Murder and Violence
Exley’s father is murdered by an unidentified assailant. Exley arrests three suspects connected to a homicide. While in police custody, they try to get escape and are killed in a shoot-out with the police. Reynolds is killed which prompts Vincennes to investigate. He soon finds himself trapped. Smith kills Vincennes to stop him from revealing the truth. Smith goes on to kill Hudgens. Exley and White get into a fight. They both realize that Smith was the villain all along. He is the one who has been killing and orchestrating everything. Exley kills Smith in a confrontation.
