Adam Beach is departing NBC's crime drama "Law & Order: SVU" at the end of the season.

Beach joined Dick Wolf's crime drama last fall under a one-year deal, which had an option for a second. The two sides have decided not to exercise the option.

On "L&O: SVU," from Wolf Films and Universal Media Studios, Beach plays Chester Lake, an SVU detective from Brooklyn.

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

Beach joined "L&O: SVU" on the heels of his starring role in Wolf's Emmy-winning HBO film "Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee," which earned the actor a Golden Globe nomination.

"Adam is a superb actor," Wolf said. "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. He did a terrific job this season on 'SVU,' and I look forward to working with him again in the near future."

Beach's departure from "L&O: SVU" follows the news that another regular on the show, veteran Diane Neal, also is exiting the series.

It is understood that Neal's A.D.A. Casey Novak will be replaced with a new A.D.A. character to be introduced next season. Beach's role is not expected to be recast.

Adam Beach leaving 'Law & Order: SVU'

By Nellie Andreeva

April 18, 2008,