Voss's recorded voice, You're not touching anything at this station. I don't care what kind of fake authority you're claiming. That doesn't sound like routine skepticism about identification, General Thorne observed.
That sounds like someone desperate to prevent examination of specific equipment. Voss looked toward Shaw for support. Captain, you know, I was following proper procedures for suspicious persons around restricted fuel systems.
Shaw stepped forward, his voice taking on an authoritative tone. Agent Cross, you're presenting selective audio segments without proper context. These recordings could easily be edited to misrepresent normal police protocols.
Danielle smiled and opened another file. You're concerned about selective presentation. Let's hear the complete context.
She activated the next recording segment captured by the SUV's directional microphones during Shaw and Voss's private conversation beside the patrol vehicle. The audio quality was exceptional, clearly distinguishing both voices despite background noise from highway traffic. Shaw's voice emerged unmistakably from the speakers.
Keep her away from the cabinet until we can clear it. If she accesses those controls before we secure everything, this becomes much bigger than a badge problem. Shaw's face went completely white as his own words played back to him.
Voss's recorded response followed. What if she won't back down? That federal investigator act of hers seems pretty convincing.
It's not an act, you idiot, Shaw's voice continued. But without the recordings, she can't prove what happened before the general showed up. Make sure nothing else gets preserved.
Voss turned toward Shaw with an expression of complete shock and growing rage. Captain, you told me. You said we were managing a rogue federal impersonator.
You never said she was actually. Shut your mouth right now. Shaw hissed, his composure finally cracking.
Don't say another word until we can discuss this privately. Privately? Voss's voice rose to a shout, his earlier confidence completely shattered.
You're the one who ordered me to keep her away from the pump. You're the one who said clear the evidence. I was following your direct instructions.
Officer Voss, that is enough. Shaw snapped. You will remain silent and let me handle this situation.
Handle it. Voss laughed bitterly. You mean throw me under the bus while you pretend you didn't know anything?
I heard what you just heard, Captain. Your voice giving the orders. Shaw grabbed Voss's arm, trying to pull him aside.
We are not discussing operational details in front of federal personnel. Voss jerked away from Shaw's grip. Operational details?
You mean the fuel theft you’ve been running? The intimidation you ordered, the evidence tampering you planned. Danielle raised her hand, silencing both men before their argument could escalate further.