and the former criminal law student in me was rather SHAMED that I didn't think of it earlierin the ep as firearm possession = automatic violation in pretty much any jurisdiction

I'm not a former criminal law student, but I didn't think of it, either, and when we saw it slapped my head and said "of course!". Points to both Dexter and the show for letting him be smart and use his knowledge from daily work that way.

Also, Dexter/Rudy as Harry/Connor made me giggle a little.

He. But I really thought of it during this episode. Also, Deb does remind me of Kara. At least Harry O. is not a serial killer! (Though Connor is one if one does not limit serial killing to the human species...)

Here's another silly thing for you: Doakes as Todd, going after Rudy with the gulf club?