by Robin Mahle
He met up with her and pulled open the door. “After you.”
The chief stood just inside the entrance. “You must be Agent Quinn, I’m Chief Henry Tate. I’ve heard a lot of good things about you and the work you’ve done at the BAU.”
“Thank you. I hope Agent Ness hasn’t raised your expectations too highly. But I’ll do my best.” He turned to Kate. “This is Special Agent Kate Reid. She’s apprenticing for me right now after having spent the past few years doing similar work with the FBI’s Washington Field Office in D.C.”
“Agent Reid. Pleasure. This is Deputy Shane Lazaro and Deputy Eric Slocum, and of course, you know Agent Ness.”
“Actually, we haven’t yet met in person. Thanks for bringing us in on this, Agent Ness.” She turned to the deputies. “Pleased to meet you both.”
The chief clapped his hands and began, “Okay. Now that the pleasantries are over, let’s get down to brass tacks.” He approached Slocum’s desk. “You’ll have to forgive our paltry accommodations. I don’t have a nice big conference room, so we’ll have to convene here where Slocum can pull up the case files and I can brief y’all on this regrettable situation.”
While the chief filled them in on much of what they already knew, Kate studied the crime scene photos again. She noted the meticulous placement of the bodies. The way their clothes had been fixed. Buttoned up, or straightened up, even though they were blood soaked. Care was taken with them. “Forgive my interruption, but I’m noticing here on these pictures that the victims appear to have been cared for, in a way.”
“I’m sorry? Cared for?” Slocum asked.
“Yes. As if whoever put them here felt badly for their deaths. Regretted them, even.”
Quinn leaned over her shoulder to take a look. “You could be onto something.” He returned his attention to the chief. “I understand there is some concern on your part that this could be a drug deal gone bad. And according to the file, only two of the victims were well acquainted with one another. The third murder occurred at a later date.”
“That’s right. The girlfriend of that third victim said she’d been with him the day before. But I do maintain that this is drug-related, given the toxicology reports, which are also in the file.”
“Yes. We did review those,” Kate replied. “Agent Quinn can correct me if I’m wrong here, but the placement of these bodies.” She paused a moment. “I’m not DEA, but how many cartels would take the time to do this? Place them the way they did inside that mineshaft.”
“Agent Reid, I have nothing but respect for the work you do. I simply can’t imagine the horrendous things you must see in your line of work. However, here in Crown Pointe, we’ve been dealing with an epidemic for quite some time. Drugs have taken a whole lot of our fine people. If it’s a drug deal, then so be it, but I’ve seen what happens here when deals go bad. And this is nothing like I’ve seen before. Which is why I asked Agent Ness for help. And he turned to you fine folks.”
“These pictures only give us part of the story,” Quinn began. “We need to see the victims. I think it will help us develop a more comprehensive understanding of these murders.”
“I think that’s a fine idea, Agent Quinn.”
The chief and his officers led the way toward the small medical facility while Kate and Agent Quinn followed in their own vehicle.
“Sounds to me like the chief isn’t sure which direction to take this investigation,” Kate said. “I don’t think Ness is confident either.”
“I suppose that’s why we’re here. This isn’t something the chief is used to dealing with. OD’s, addicts, petty crimes; these are things they’re used to. Bludgeoning and tox screens that show a deadly chemical compound, not so much,” Quinn replied. “This must be the place. They’re pulling in here.”
He cut the engine and looked at Kate. “You’ve been doing this for long enough, so I won’t insult you by offering instruction on how to deal with the local authorities. So long as it doesn’t end up in a shouting match like your last investigation.”
“That’s not fair. You knew we were dealing with a bad cop.”
“You’re right. I’m sorry I brought it up. I will, however, suggest that we let the evidence speak for itself. If what we see doesn’t jibe with their assessments, we will make ourselves heard. First and foremost, we’re here to speak for the victims.”
“Couldn’t agree more.” Kate stepped out and met with the officers.
“I reckon you’re pretty used to this kind of stuff?” Slocum asked.
“I’m not sure how used to it anyone could really be, but I’ve seen my share. And it doesn’t get any easier.”
“Well, we sure appreciate you both being here. I never seen nothing like this before. And I don’t care to see it again.” Slocum opened the door as they walked inside.
“Second time in a week, Henry,” Doc began. “Let’s try not to make a habit out of this.” He offered his hand. “And it appears you brought company.”
“Yes, sir. This here is Agent Quinn and his colleague, Agent Reid. They’re with the Behavioral Analysis Unit of the FBI.”
“Ah yes. I’m familiar with the work y’all do over there. Can’t say as I’d want to be doing that myself, but I reckon I got no choice at the moment.”
“No, sir. I don’t blame you,” Quinn replied. “If you don’t mind, could we go back and get started? We’re a little under the gun for time, here.”
“Sure. Of course. Come on back and take a look.” Doc started back but peered over his shoulder at Quinn. “I’m still waiting on some forensics, unfortunately. Don’t suppose there’s anything you can do to expedite that for us?”
“We can certainly try. Agent Ness? You think you could put in a call on your end?”
“I’ll give it my level best.”
They arrived at the room, the only one large enough to house the three victims while the case moved forward.
“As you can imagine, I’ve got the families of these poor souls waiting for us to release them,” Chief said. “So the sooner we can get these results, the better for everyone involved.”
The doctor opened the cold lockers and pulled out the trays. Each body was covered in a sheet.
Kate approached Joanne Waverly’s body. “According to the file, these victims were struck from behind.” She pulled down the sheet and examined the marks on her body, taking note of her legs. “This girl wasn’t on her knees at the time of the blow to the head. There’s no scratches or bruising on them. So I have to assume she was standing.”
“You’re thinking it would’ve made more sense for the perpetrator to force her to her knees, then strike the back of the skull. Better leverage for the desired effect,” Quinn replied.
She looked to the doctor. “May we turn her on her side?”
“Of course. Let me give you a hand.”
“Thank you.” Kate continued to examine the trauma to the skull. “Your post-mortem exam suggests the victims were on the verge of death, likely from the drugs, before the final blows that would end their suffering.”
“Well, yes. Although I’m not sure which would’ve been worse.”
“The blow to the head would’ve been quick,” the chief said. “Quicker than watching her mouth foam and her body convulse.”
“Meaning the unsub might’ve been showing compassion,” Quinn replied. “Although that doesn’t change the fact that whoever it was wanted the people dead in the first place.”
“The strength that it would’ve taken to strike hard enough would also point to the unsub being a male.” Kate walked around the body and toward the other victim. “This one here.” She pointed to the skull of Steven Schiller. “This man is what, about five feet ten, 160 pounds?”
“Just about,” Doc replied.
“A woman would’ve struggled to reach his skull and still have the leverage needed to assert enough force.” Agent Ness stepped in for a closer view.
“So let me get this straight. Y’all think we’re dealin
g with a man, at least medium build, who has compassion for his victims?” The chief looked to his deputies. “Sounds like an oxymoron if I ever heard one.”
“That it does,” Quinn replied. “But would someone from outside, a cartel or drifter, or whomever, have known about the abandoned mineshaft? The trailer park and its reputation?”
The chief seemed to consider the probability. “Unlikely.”
“I suppose that means it’s someone here in town. I can’t believe anyone in Crown Pointe would be capable of something so horrific.” Lazaro appeared distraught at the idea. “This town’s got its problems, but brutal murder isn’t one of them.”
“It is now,” Kate replied.
7
The lights inside the plane were dimmed on the return red-eye flight to D.C. and most of the passengers were sleeping. But Kate wouldn’t be going to sleep anytime soon. With her tray table down and her laptop open, she continued to work.
Quinn sat next to her and was scrolling through his phone before taking notice. “You don’t stop, do you?”
“Sorry?”
“Work. You don’t stop working, do you?”
“Sure I do. Usually from the hours of midnight to about 6am.”
He checked the time on his phone. “It’s after midnight now.”
“Ah, but you see, I’m technically still on the clock. So…”
Quinn smiled. “I was impressed with your work today. And the way you handled yourself.”
“Did you expect anything less from me?”
“Well, let’s just say the last time we worked on a case together, you were frustrated, verging on hostile.”
“I can see I clearly made a bad impression on you during that investigation. Which leads me to wonder why it was you still brought me on. And in all fairness, you weren’t my supervisor at the time. Not to mention the fact that we were dealing with a corrupt cop in the process.”
“Fair point. And as to why I still wanted you here, all I can say is I saw beyond your temperament. And I do feel that the circumstances were challenging with that detective. I can appreciate that. I should’ve prefaced my earlier statement by clarifying that you were surefooted. More confident in your conclusions than I’d seen before. Which leads me to believe that you don’t need me as much as I thought you did.”
“I see. What can I say? I’m a quick learner.”
“That you are, Reid.” He tipped back the rest of his soda. “Time will tell if our—your—conclusions are correct.”
“I hope I’m not proven correct when another body surfaces and that that was the end of it.”
“It’s in Ness’ hands now. We’ve given them something to chew on. It’ll be up to Chief Tate to decide how to move forward and if they need to get the DEA involved.”
Lynn Floyd pulled away from the window. “They’re here. Are you ready?”
“I am. Let ‘em in.” John Floyd poured the tablets into the prescription bottle and sealed the cap. “Remember, we agreed on a price.”
“I know that.” She opened the door as they approached her front steps. “Afternoon, boys. Come on in.”
A young man, appearing to be in his early twenties, removed his baseball cap. “Thank you, ma’am. This here is Wyatt. I’m Kevin.”
“I know who you boys are.” Lynn closed the door as they stepped inside. “Go on in and see Mr. Floyd. He’ll get you all fixed up.”
The first young man still clutched his ball cap as he made his way inside the kitchen. “I was real sorry to hear about your daughter. She was a good person.”
“Thank you. We miss her dearly. How did you know her?” John asked.
“Through some friends. Can’t say as I knew her well, but we hung around with much of the same crowd.”
“I see. Well, like we agreed upon. I assume you have the money?”
“I do, sir.” The man reached into his pocket. “Five hundred dollars. Like you said.” He placed the money on the table.
John pushed the bottle toward him. “There you go. You give us a ring if and when you’re needing some more.”
“Will do.” He looked to his cohort. “Come on. Let’s get out of these nice people’s hair now. I’m sure they got better things to do than look at us.” He led the way toward the door again. “Much obliged.”
Lynn nodded and let the boys out. She waited until they pulled away before closing the door again. “Should get us by for a while.”
“Yep. I’m sure we can count on their speedy return.” He handed his wife the money. “Keep this in a safe place.”
“Always do.” She began walking toward the living room again. “Oh, there’s two more I came across yesterday. I reckon they’ll be coming by before too long. Seeing as we still got the lowest price.”
“What’d you do? Just go up and tell them you’re a drug dealer?”
“Didn’t have to. I made sure they saw me pull the bottle from my handbag. Made it real obvious for them. It was pretty easy after that.”
Kate poured a cup of coffee and caught sight of Nick shuffling into the kitchen. “Looks like you could use a nice cup of hot java.” She retrieved a mug for him.
“Why didn’t you wake me when you got home last night?”
“Because I didn’t get home until almost three in the morning. No sense in both of us suffering from lack of sleep.”
He leaned in to kiss her. “I’m glad you’re home. How’d it go?”
“We gave them our two cents. Not sure if they wanted to hear it.”
Nick sipped on his coffee. “Weren’t they the ones who asked for a consult?”
“The Pikeville office did. Don’t get me wrong, I think they appreciated our advice. I’m just not sure they’ll heed it. The chief seemed reluctant.”
“I’m sure it’s not easy. Small town. Everyone knows each other.”
“Must be hard to imagine someone you know could’ve done such a thing. I think that’s why they kept steering the case toward an outside cartel instead of looking internally.”
“And you and Quinn don’t think that’s the right way to go?”
“I’m not convinced, considering the evidence they presented. Though I wouldn’t rule it out just yet.”
“You think you’ll have to go back?”
“Hard to say. I think they’ll need some time to absorb our suggestions. The problem is…”
“They still have a killer on the loose.”
“Yes they do.” She placed her mug in the sink. “I’d better head out.”
“Wait, did you eat?”
“I’ll grab something on the way.” She kissed him. “See you at the office.”
In the halls of the BAU, agents and other staff busily carried on with their work while Kate felt a little worse for wear after just a few hours’ rest but tossed back the last gulp of her Starbucks and continued toward Quinn’s office. “Morning.”
“Morning. Glad you managed to make it in on time. What with only a couple hours of sleep. How are you holding up?”
“Fine. Couldn’t be better.” She was, of course, exhausted, but given that Quinn was a few years her junior, she didn’t want to give in to any misconceptions about age, or being a woman.
“Great. Me too.” He pushed up from his desk. “Hey, can I show you something?”
Kate watched as he approached her and continued through his doorway. “Where are we going?”
“Downstairs.”
Without the chance to even check her emails, Kate was already heading out again. This time, the reason was shrouded in mystery. “Downstairs” usually referenced the lab, but there were also classrooms and archival facilities.
“Does this have anything to do with the Crown Pointe murders?” She stepped quickly to catch up.
“You’ll see.” Quinn opened a door and switched on the lights. “I found something I thought would be useful.”
“When? Since our flight arrived five hours ago?”
“I don’t have anyone to occupy my time, so I spend a l
ot of it here.”
His words were laced with a little spice, which confused her, considering his compliment on the airplane only last night. But rather than cause a dust up with her still-new boss, she let it slide—this time. “So, what is it, then?”
“Follow me.” He made his way into the small training room and opened a laptop, which displayed an FBI screensaver on the wall ahead. He began keying in something until an image appeared.
Kate studied the wall monitor. The image was of a shallow grave that contained four bodies. All lying face up. Arms resting at their sides and still fully clothed, except that it was clear there was a fair amount of decay. “What is this?”
“A case I pulled up from a few years ago. Ten to be exact. This was in rural Michigan. In a vacant lot behind a house. These bodies were uncovered after neighbors complained of erratic behavior from the owner.”
“Erratic how?”
“Loud noises, dog barking till all hours. The owner coming and going at night. Lights on in the backyard. That sort of thing. But it wasn’t until the smell reached some of these neighbors that they finally called the police.”
“You said this might be useful. In what way?”
“Glad you asked. I pulled this case after I got a hit on a search for drug cartels here in the US. The ones that usually expand from Mexico. And what I found was that our Crown Pointe case isn’t as atypical as it might appear.” He grabbed a remote and clicked to change the image on the monitor. “In fact, I noticed some similarities, which is why I wanted you to see this too.”
“The victims all appear to have been shot execution-style. That’s not what we found in Crown Pointe,” Kate replied.
“No. It isn’t. However, take a look at the care in which the bodies were buried.”
“So you believe this was also the result of a cartel? That the owner of the house was maybe part of it? Do we even know who did this?”
“We do.” He clicked again and the image changed to three men in handcuffs being led to a jail or a courthouse. “These men were part of the Sinaloa Cartel. Members who resided in Michigan.”