"That wasn't my question."
She swallowed.
"We have a contract."
"And federal law?"
She looked irritated.
"We're a private community."
Mr. Sterling turned a page.
"Let's discuss the fence."
He showed her the property survey.
"You attempted to destroy private property."
"It was on an easement."
"The survey says otherwise."
Patty became angry.
"He wouldn't listen!"
Mr. Sterling paused.
"Why?"
"Because he humiliated me."
The room went still.
"You attempted foreclosure because he humiliated you?"
Patty realized her mistake.
"I meant—"
Mr. Sterling continued.
"One final question."
He played the recording.
Patty's own voice filled the room.
We don't negotiate with terrorists.
Mr. Sterling stopped the recording.
"Who was the terrorist?"
Patty stared at him.
"The resident."
"Why?"
"He refused to obey."
Mr. Sterling closed the folder.
"No further questions."
The case was over.
Patty just didn't know it yet.
The Collapse
The HOA's insurance company refused to defend the board.
Their policy excluded intentional illegal conduct.
Without insurance, the association had to pay for everything.
Legal fees.
Damages.
Federal penalties.
The board collapsed.
One member resigned.
Then another.
Then another.
The management company terminated its contract.
The bank froze the HOA's accounts.