It was created by a journalist and a cop, who both had long careers in Baltimore before working on the show. Not surprising how realistic it is. (Also a beautiful work of art beyond the realism.) If you find the show interesting, David Simon's book "Homicide" is a great read.

In their defense their target was amazingly adept.

Many criminals even today don't engage in basic counter measures like you see on that show.

And I'd call them "dysfunctional" more than inept. Bad leadership stymied by political goals overcomes even good policing.

You’re doing my boy McNulty dirty.

That, and the alcoholism