For reference: a : 1 to paddle, splash, or play in or as if in water
b : to reach with the bill to the bottom of shallow water in order to obtain food
2
: to work or involve oneself superficially or intermittently especially in a secondary activity or interest <dabbles in art>
Vincent Hanna and Serpico could never be considered dabbling in police roles. Pacino made real police act in a different manner.
EDIT: I apologize. It just hit a real nerve with me to call it "dabbling" in police roles.