The formal federal meeting took place two days later in a conference room with no windows overlooking the street. Agent Sarah Williams and Agent David Torres listened as Delgado explained the archives, the audit trail, and the steps she had taken to preserve the recordings. The agents received the material through documented procedures, arranged for forensic verification, and requested orders to secure original files and relevant communications. Marcus and Angela attended only those parts of the meeting where their personal evidence and testimony were needed.
Williams was deliberate about what she promised. "The videos are serious," she said. "They support allegations of civil rights violations and possible conspiracy. But we have to establish who authorized the actions, who received payments, and how those events connect. That means interviews, records, and an evidence trail that can survive in court."
"Holt has already returned with a warrant after we reported him," Angela said. "What keeps him from coming back again?"
"We'll coordinate with the appropriate authorities on witness safety and report any further threats immediately. I won't pretend the risk has vanished. But he no longer controls where all the evidence is stored or who can review it."
Torres had been working with financial investigators on the company structure Daniel identified. He showed Marcus a diagram linking Vision Heights to Crown Properties and Phoenix Ventures, and he explained how legal orders could establish whether money described as consulting fees had ultimately benefited Holt. The investigators were also reviewing whether applications for the second search warrant included knowingly false statements. They would compare the affidavit with dispatch records, informant documentation, and camera footage rather than assuming either side was telling the whole story.
"We're seeing recurring payments," Torres said. "We are not ready to announce conclusions, but the timing is consistent with the acquisition groups you identified. An accountant familiar with the records has agreed to speak under counsel's supervision."
Marcus listened carefully. He had learned enough about investigations to understand that the strongest case was built slowly, in layers, until each piece supported another. He wanted Holt removed that day. He wanted Griggs unable to enter anyone else's home by nightfall. But he also wanted the proceedings to be strong enough that the men responsible could not walk away because the evidence had been handled carelessly.
Meanwhile, Angela resumed her visits to Mrs. Carter. She told the older woman the investigation had become serious, without describing confidential material or promising an outcome. Mrs. Carter admitted that Vision Heights had increased its offer yet again and sent a letter describing a final opportunity before planned redevelopment. Angela suggested having Diana review it before any response.
"They want me to think I'm the last stubborn person in the world," Mrs. Carter said, sitting beneath her porch fan. "Sometimes I wonder if I should have sold just to give everyone else peace."
Angela turned toward her. "They came for our house because they were trying to frighten the whole street. That wasn't your doing. If you wanted to sell because you were ready to move, I'd help you pack. But you don't owe anyone your home as payment for leaving you alone."