In the criminal justice system, sexually-based vampire attacks are considered especially heinous. (DOINK DOINK)

Yes, that means Christopher Meloni has officially joined HBO's 'True Blood' as a series regular. TVLine reports Meloni will play a very powerful vampire. This vampire just so happens to hold the fate of Bill and Eric in his very undead hands.

News of Meloni's involvement in 'True Blood' first broke in November.

After spending 12 years as Detective Stabler on 'Law & Order: SVU,' Meloni abruptly quit the show prior to Season 13. Danny Pino and Kelli Giddish were brought on as new 'SVU' detectives.

Better keep those fangs sharp: 'True Blood' will be back for a fifth season.

"I am thrilled that 'True Blood' continues to enjoy a phenomenal reception from both subscribers and critics," Michael Lombardo, HBO president, said in statement. "Alan Ball and his gifted team have devised the greatest thrill ride on TV."

Alan Ball will be back as showrunner for the 12-episode Season 5. The Season 4 premiere was seen by 5.42 million viewers and subsequent episodes have brought in around 5 million viewers each week.