why is velasco leaving svu

Detective Joe Velasco is leaving "Law & Order: SVU" because he has been assigned to an undercover mission for the DEA targeting a dangerous drug lord. This new undercover assignment will take him to San Diego. Velasco's departure occurs during Season 27, where he says goodbye to Captain Olivia Benson and Sergeant Fin Tutuola before leaving the squad to pursue this high-stakes mission. Although he was reluctant to leave, especially with Sergeant Tutuola injured, he ultimately takes the role because it is where he can do the most good, according to Captain Benson's advice. Velasco's exit storyline underscores his experience with cartels and his excitement about his DEA work, which motivated his relocation and departure from SVU.