It looks like the show likely used either an older photo from Richard T. Jones’s previous acting work or a production-provided stock image, then dressed it up to fit the story. Reddit discussion around the episode points to the image looking like it came from another police role and even notes the uniform details seem more NYPD than LAPD, which is why viewers noticed it.

What viewers think happened

  • Most likely: an older headshot or still from a past role was reused.
  • Why people noticed: the badge and uniform details don’t look like a standard LAPD setup.
  • Another possibility: the image was digitally altered to make him look younger.

Why shows do this

TV productions often recycle archival photos, publicity stills, or images from earlier projects when they need a “younger version” of a character fast and cheaply. In this case, fan discussion specifically points to his earlier cop- show work as the most plausible source.

If you want, I can also help identify which older Richard T. Jones role the photo may have been pulled from.