Repression - S3-E1
Visible crew/equipment: A white reflector screen and a crew member are reflected on Munch's sunglasses when he is questioning the housekeeper. (00:30:20)
Visible crew/equipment: After Cragen and Cabot meet with and Mark Sanford and his attorney, Cragen storms out of the building, followed by Cabot. As the camera pans following them, you can see the reflection of a microphone in the reflection of the windows of the silver car in the foreground. (00:18:00)
Redemption - S3-E6
Visible crew/equipment: While Detective Stabler and Hawkins talk on the sidewalk, the shadow of a boom mic can be seen on Stabler's shoulder. (00:19:55)
Visible crew/equipment: Benson and Stabler are arriving at Judge Thornburg's place of residence as they learn he's been shot. As their vehicle squeals to a stop, you can see multiple crew members and equipment in the reflection of their maroon car. (00:19:00)
Visible crew/equipment: As Benson and Stabler are walking along the sidewalk talking to the manager of the locksmith company, they pass by two red vans and stop in front of the second one. In the reflection of the van and the window there is a boom mic and a cameraman blatantly visible for more than 15 seconds. (00:18:05)
Visible crew/equipment: As Benson and Stabler are interviewing the grandmother, the mirror behind Stabler briefly shows a microphone that peeks into view. (00:34:00)
Answer: I didn't see the show so I don't know the details. A general answer would be because a reckless endangerment charge is easier to prove "beyond a Reasonable Doubt" in court and get a conviction. This charge would not require the prosecutor to prove intent, which would be required for proving aggravated or simple assault. Also, if there were no visible injuries, it is difficult to show bodily injury. Just because the reckless endangerment charge was specifically mentioned, it does not necessarily mean there were not other charges filed. Police often make multiple charges, like lesser-included offenses, so that the defendant's act will fall under one of them if the legal requirements are not met for the others, if they are not sure of the best charge to make (the district attorney knows and can decide), or to have something to plea bargain with.
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