The DA's Daughter

Chapter Ten

"And what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?"

"Thank you for taking time out of your day to see us." Spoke the commissioner. "I am sure you are aware of the bank robbery that had taken place last week and that the district attorney's daughter was a victim of a kidnapping at the same bank."

"Yes. I am very aware of that. I've made it my business to keep up with the news. You never know when something of interest crosses your path." The gentleman said as he began to pour himself a beverage. "Would either of you men like a drink? I have a vintage scotch that arrived just yesterday, haven't been opened yet." He suggested.

"No thank you. I'm on duty and Mr. Collins doesn't drink."

"Of course, I should have known that. Maybe another time. Back to why you are here, you haven't said yet."

"Well Mr. Carter, we are here because your name has been brought up in our investigation. Could you tell us why that may have happened?" Asked Charles.

"Please, do call me Joseph. No need for such professionalism in my home." He tsked. "As for my name coming up, I wouldn't really know. I don't use that bank and I have no strife with you or your body of work, Charles. In fact, I applaud your efforts at arresting and finally placing Malcolm Garcia behind bars. That filth has been trying to run this city far too long." Joseph's distaste for Malcolm didn't take long to show its face.

"We are already aware you do not care much for the man or his family. You placed several complaints in the last fifteen years regarding him harassing your businesses as well as yourself." Pointed out Phillip.

"That is true. He was trying to buy out several of my retail businesses in main sector of the city, as well as New Lochdale. Most likely for his narcotics trade and other nefarious purposes." His voice continued to spew disgust.

"We also know that you believe he is responsible for the death of your family ten years ago." Charles was very careful when treading on this topic. He knew that Joseph Carter was a familiar name and it was because of the case Joseph had against Malcolm. He didn't work on that one personally but he always wanted to bring justice for the man. He lost his whole family and got nothing in the end. Malcolm got off Scott free and Joseph was left picking up the pieces afterward. Luckily, Joseph was an intelligent man and has been doing quite well for himself in his family's name.

"Yes. I still know that to be fact. I wouldn't give him what he wanted so he had taken away what meant most to me." His face was stony but easily readable.

"We are sorry about that Mr. Carter." Apologized Charles. "I knew that case well, he deserved to go away at that time but he had a few cards up his sleeves, despite the evidence against him."

"Again, it's Joseph and I appreciate the condolences Charles. Now, back to the moment. You say my name was brought up in your investigation, why would you start digging around for my name?"

"We didn't. One of our informants in the Garcia organization was telling us that your name had been brought up in some conversations lately. Especially after the bank robbery. You'll find out on the news this evening but the boxes that were robbed were those belonging to Harold Garcia." Explained Philip.

"Understandable but if you're skirting around asking me if I had anything to do with this robbery, you would be mistaken. I have an alibi for the whole day, including the day before and after. I could get my secretary to give you all that information if needed." The man was calm even though he knew his name was being dragged through the dirt on purpose.

"Thank you. We would appreciate that and we would like you to know, we have no reason to suspect you. You are a highly respected man in this city and you have done much good. We have taken up enough of your time. If anything else arises, we will be sure to let you know." All three men stood in unison and shook hands.

"If anything comes across my desk or ears, I will convey it directly to you men. I will have Samantha show you out." Joseph said, leading them to the door of his study and waving over Samantha, his personal assistant. "Can you escort these gentleman out, please?" She nodded her head and turned to the men.

"Follow me please."

Once they were back in their vehicle, they began speaking again. "He has the motive but do you think he has the means?" Philip asked Charles.

"Honestly, I don't think he would do that. You heard him and nothing has come across our desks about him being involved in anything criminal. If anything, he has been the complete opposite of Malcolm. He's trying to do good for this city, clean up the mess that has been made."

"I understand you are fond the man but we can't just throw it all out."

"I know. I just don't think he really has anything to do with this situation. I believe he is being set up and I fear it will end badly for him." Charles' guts were telling him something horrible was afoot and he generally trusted his gut. It hadn't failed him.