The troubled vetran who came to The D from New York City

Michael Imperioli, acclaimed actor, writer and producer, has established a successful career in both television and film. Most recently he starred in the indie horror movie "Foreclosure," which is scheduled for release in 2011. He also recently starred as Detective Ray Carling on ABC's critically acclaimed drama series, "Life on Mars," during the 2008-2009 Season.

Imperioli is best known for his role as Christopher Moltisanti on the acclaimed series "The Sopranos," which earned him a Best Supporting Actor Emmy® Award, five Emmy nominations, as well as numerous Golden Globe and SAG nominations. In addition to his role as a cast member, Imperioli wrote five episodes of the show. He also had a star turn on the right side of the law as a detective in the acclaimed series "Law & Order," and was the voice of Frankie in the DreamWorks Academy Award-nominated "Shark Tale."

"The Hungry Ghosts," a New York City-based feature which Imperioli wrote and directed, was released in 2009. In December 2009, he starred in Peter Jackson's "The Lovely Bones," based on the bestselling book, opposite Rachel Weiz and Mark Wahlberg.

Imperioli first came to the public's attention as Spider in Martin Scorsese's "Goodfellas." In his more than 30 film roles, he has worked with such acclaimed directors as Spike Lee on "Jungle Fever," "Malcolm X," "Clockers," "Girl 6" and "Summer of Sam"; the Hughes Brothers on "Dead Presidents," and with Nancy Savoca on "Household Saints." Other credits include Campbell Scott's "Hamlet," Peter Mattei's "Love in the Time of Money," Gary Winnick's "Sweet Nothing" and the comedy "My Baby's Daddy."

As a writer, Imperioli has done work for Dimension on "King Suckerman" and penned the screen adaptation of Mario Puzo's "Omerta" for Miramax. He also wrote and executive-produced "Summer of Sam."

The Character

Everyone has a theory about Detective Louis Fitch, but nobody "really" knows him. He's the first guy in and the last guy out each and every day. Does this guy even have a home?

Fitch is a master interrogator with the highest case closure rate around. He's a black and white cop in a grey world. When we say he'll do whatever it takes to solve a case, we mean "he'll do whatever it takes." If you "set the tone" and "control the room," things will always go your way.

Fitch works around the clock neglecting his personal life, if he has one. Again, nobody knows for sure. There are rumors about an incident in New York City that drove Fitch to Detroit. But those stories are just as mysterious as the man himself.

Fitch has been paired with a new rookie partner, Detective Damon Washington. It's up to the wise veteran to teach the new guy how things work out on the murderous streets. If anyone knows what it takes to be a homicide cop in Detroit, it's Louis Fitch.

Fitch chooses intellect and instinct over emotions; there is ALWAYS method to Fitch's madness. The enormity of being a homicide detective in a city with the nation's highest murder rate can be challenging to some, but not to Louis Fitch. These tough streets are his playground.

Fitch has personal battles and understands his flaws, which makes him feel guarded and self-condemning. He trusts his convections and is uncompromising. Fitch has no problem suppressing his feelings. In fact, he prefers it.

There's a singleness of purpose, almost genius-like. Fitch believes evil is something people learn. The key is to connect with these misguided souls on a human level.

The police station is Louis Fitch's domain – if you think you're walking away once he has you in his sights, you have another thing coming. He is the lion king of cops and the station is his den.

Living and working as a homicide detective in Detroit can be tough. Louis Fitch may not know where he'll to end up, but he's confident the road he's taking will always go through Detroit.