The specialist answered before Maya could. Encrypted synchronization. Once the camera connects, completed segments are copied off site. Local users can delete the card without affecting material that is already transferred.
Mercer stared at the camera. How often does it upload? That depends on the configuration. I'm checking now.
He entered the device identification number and authentication information supplied through the transition records. A status window appeared. The specialist read it silently, then turned the monitor slightly toward Blake. Last successful synchronization began before the traffic stop ended.
Mercer's face tightened. Dugan asked, "Where is the server?" "Not in this building."
"That wasn't my question. It's part of a secure environment used for the transition integrity review. The storage is federally managed under the outside evidence agreement." Dugan looked at Maya.
"You arranged federal storage for a county vehicle. I didn't design the system. Can you access it?" Not directly.
The specialist confirmed that Sheriff Williams can't alter the original files from here. Neither can anyone in this department. Dugan's voice became more controlled. Can they be deleted remotely?
Not by a local administrator. The answer ended the discussion. Blake instructed him to retrieve only a verified working copy while preserving the original remote record. The process took several minutes.
Nobody spoke much during that time. Mercer remained near the back wall. Noah stood across the room watching the progress screen. Dugan occasionally checked his phone but did not make any calls.
The first recovered file appeared shortly after 1:00 in the morning. Blake looked at Maya. You don't need to watch this. I know.
Maya remained long enough to confirm that the footage existed. The video began with the Bentley already stopped on the roadside. Maya stepped out. She locked the doors.
Mercer approached and demanded the key. Her refusal followed clearly. You don't have a search warrant. I refuse.
The next portion showed Mercer questioning her. Followed by Noah arriving and confirming that the registration and insurance were valid. The specialist paused the recording. Blake looked toward Noah.
That's your voice. Yes, ma'am. You had already confirmed ownership at that point? Yes.
Mercer interrupted. There were still circumstances I was investigating. Blake looked at him. You'll have an opportunity to explain those circumstances in a separate interview.
She resumed the footage. Mercer removed the baton. Maya remained several feet away. The first window was broken, then the remaining windows.
The rear windshield followed. The camera recorded Maya's hands, Mercer's movements and Noah's repeated objections. No one watching the footage had to interpret whether Maya had physically interfered. She had not.
The recording then showed Mercer entering the passenger compartment and searching the Bentley. Blake watched without comment. The footage continued until Mercer discovered the camera itself. His face appeared close to the lens for a moment before he removed the unit.
The image changed angle as he carried it away, but the audio remained active for a short period. Maya's voice could still be heard telling him to document the chain of custody. Then Mercer answered, "I know how evidence works." A few seconds later came another line.