Langford looked up, a tiny, desperate sliver of hope igniting in his chest. "You really think that will work?"
"I have made worse go away," Donnelly sneered. "Just stick to the script. You feared for your life. That phrase is your golden shield."
Later, the State Bureau of Investigation took formal control of the case. Lead Agent Marcus Reed, a meticulous investigator known for his absolute intolerance of police corruption, arrived at the Supreme Court building. He was escorted past the heavy security detail directly into Elias's chambers.
"Chief Justice Whitaker," Agent Reed said respectfully, removing his coat. "I apologize for the intrusion, sir. I have been assigned to handle the criminal investigation regarding former Officer Langford."
"Take a seat, Agent Reed," Elias gestured to a leather chair opposite his desk. "There is no need for apologies. You have a job to do. I have prepared a comprehensive sworn statement detailing the events of last night, which I have had notarized."
Elias slid a thick manila envelope across the polished wood. Reed took the envelope, feeling its weight.
"Thank you, sir. I must inform you that the Police Union has already released a preliminary statement to the press. They are alleging that you were highly combative, refused lawful orders, and that Officer Langford was forced to detain you for his own safety after you made sudden movements."
Elias did not look surprised. He offered a small, cold smile. "I expected nothing less from Mr. Donnelly. The instinct to close ranks and fabricate a defense is deeply ingrained in that particular institution."
"The issue we face, Your Honor, is that Langford's dash cam mysteriously failed to record audio during the stop, and the visual angle is useless," Reed explained, his tone laced with professional frustration. "Without corroborating evidence, bringing federal or state civil-rights charges becomes exceptionally difficult. It becomes a battle of credibility, and defense attorneys are adept at muddying those waters."
Elias leaned back in his high-backed leather chair, steepling his fingers together. "Agent Reed, are you familiar with the insurance requirements for classic automobiles appraised at over a quarter of a million dollars?"
Reed blinked, thrown by the sudden pivot in the conversation. "No, sir. I cannot say that I am."
"My Mercedes-Benz is completely restored," Elias said smoothly. "Because of its valuation, my insurance provider mandates the installation of a comprehensive modern security suite. It is entirely hidden within the vintage aesthetic of the cabin to maintain the vehicle's historical integrity."
Reed sat up straighter, his heart rate accelerating. "A security suite, sir?"
"Yes," Elias nodded. "It includes GPS tracking, engine immobilization, and a continuous-loop high-definition 360-degree cabin and dash recording system. It captures both exterior visuals and highly sensitive interior and exterior audio. It activates the moment the vehicle is unlocked and remains active for an hour after the engine is disabled."