I also am from Boston, grew up in the city not a suburb and attended Boston Public Schools. When I first watched this I found it hard because none of the characters were very likable. Especially Jackie Rohr. I love a good mystery and procedural cop show but watched a few episodes in Season 1 and then stopped.
Just started to watch it again and find it better. But it does make me sad because this stuff did go on. I guess that means its a good show because it makes you think.