Some sexual references are heard.

Serpico (Al Pacino) and Leslie (Cornelia Sharpe) are in a bathtub, Both are shown bare chested for a minute or so.

A gang rape victim (Marjorie Eliot, uncredited) is being held at knife point by the perpetrators and her breasts and pubic region are visible for several seconds. Her vulva is hidden by her pubic hair.

A woman is heard screaming. Two cops arrive at the scene, and it can be assumed she is being, or has been, raped by 2-3 young men. As they try to carry her away, her breasts are visible for a few seconds. The young men drop her and start running. The assault isn't shown.

Serpico (in plain clothes) chases down a robbery suspect and tackles him. At the same time, two cops show up and shoot at both Serpico and the robber. They are unharmed.

After a gang rape is stopped by police arrival, the attackers threaten the victim with a knife and briefly hold her hostage. The woman then describes the rape to the police, in an office. She is visibly traumatized and still partially uncovered.

A man in police custody is kicked between the legs and beaten about the face with a heavy book.

A man is shot in the face/head. The gun shot is graphic and the victim is shown bloodied from the wound.

'Sh*t' is said about 25 times.

'Nigger' is said.

'Spic' is said as a racist insult.

'Fag' is said as an insult.

'Godd*mn' is said six times.

'The Lord's name is taken in vain, including 'Jesus' said three times, 'Jesus Christ' said once, 'For Christ's sake' said once, and 'Christ' said once.

'Son of a b*tch' is said four times.

'B*stard' is said three times.

'H*ll' is said.

'*ss' is said.

'F*ck' is said 58 times.

The main character smokes cigarettes.

Marijuana cigarettes are passed around to upcoming detectives in a classroom. They are smoked, described as good.

Drugs and drug deals (i.e. heroin) are discussed, including taking and solicticing bribes from dealers.

The gang rape scene is sudden and shocking, and may be difficult for some viewers.

The weapons violence throughout is intense.

The arguments between a couple are very harsh.

Tense fear hanging over the title character.