Beach announces 'SVU' departure

NEW YORK, April 19 (UPI) -- Adam Beach is leaving the popular U.S. TV series "Law & Order: SVU," following cast member Diane Neal off the set, the actor announced Friday.

Beach, who joined the New York-based drama last season as Det. Chester Lake, said he would leave the NBC series after its current ninth season, E! Online reported.

"I very much enjoyed my year on 'Law & Order: SVU,'" Beach said. "Now I'm looking forward to new adventures."

While the 35-year-old actor's role is not expected to be recast, series executives are searching for a replacement for Neal's assistant district attorney position on the show. Neal played assistant prosecutor Casey Novak for five seasons.

Series creator Dick Wolf said Beach would be missed among his fellow cast members.

"From the first day I met him on the set of 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee,' I was knocked out by his commitment, dedication and total immersion in the film's most crucial role," Wolf said. "He did a terrific job this season on 'SVU,' and I look forward to working with him again in the near future."