During the original airing of this episode, Steven Zirnkilton's opening narration was altered to pay tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001. The narration was as follows: "On September 11th, 2001, New York City was ruthlessly and criminally attacked. While no tribute can heal the pain of that day, the producers of Law & Order dedicate this season to the victims and their families and to the firefighters and police officers who remind us everyday with their lives and courage what it truly means to be an American." Eventually, the usual "In the criminal justice system..." opening was reinstated for syndication, the DVD release and streaming services.
The abusive parents have the last name Ramsey. This was inspired by the Jon Bennett Ramsey case.
This episode kicks off season three, which is the first season where every episode has a single word title.
Actress Sarah Hyland has played a total of four characters in the L&O franchise, appearing in:
- Repression (2001) as Lily Ramsey
- The Dead Wives Club (2004) as Kristine McLean
- Vigilante (2005) as Brianne Colby
- Hothouse (2009) as Jennifer Banks
Actress Shirley Knight has played three different characters in the L&O franchise, appearing in:
- The Wages of Love (1991) as Melanie Cullen
- Repression (2001) as Dr. Wharton
- Tragedy (2003) as Rose Granville