Imperioli takes up law enforcer role.

HOLLYWOOD, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- "Sopranos" mobster Michael Imperioli will guest star as a detective on three of this season's final "Law & Order" episodes, reports Hollywood Reporter.

But the role in NBC's hit series won't be the first for the Emmy award winner.

He made a guest appearance on the legal drama in 1996. This time, he will fill in for actor Jesse Martin, the report said.

Martin is reportedly taking a temporary leave from the show to begin production on the big-screen adaptation of the musical "Rent." He is expected to return to the show in his role as Detective Ed Green for the fall 2005 season.