Harrington replied, "An apology is easy. A settlement is cheaper. Make sure he signs the confidentiality agreement."
Lawson hesitated.
"And if he refuses?"
The commissioner's voice became colder.
"Then remind him that he was detained because of suspicious behavior. The department has already documented the incident."
"But the report doesn't match the footage."
Silence followed.
Then Harrington spoke.
"Harold, I don't want to hear about footage again."
Marcus looked toward Elena.
She continued playing the recording.
Lawson asked another question.
"What about the independent review?"
Harrington answered.
"We'll appoint someone who understands the department's needs."
Mitchell laughed.
"Someone friendly."
"Exactly."
The recording ended.
For several seconds, nobody spoke.
Then David broke the silence.
"This is bigger than we thought."
Elena nodded.
"It establishes that the three senior officials discussed suppressing complaints and using confidential settlements to prevent further scrutiny."
Marcus examined the memory card.
"How many recordings are there?"
"Seven."
"Seven?"
"Yes. We haven't listened to all of them."
Marcus looked at the clock.
The press conference would begin in less than an hour.
"Elena, can we verify the recordings before the announcement?"
"We can verify the files' integrity and document their source, but a complete forensic examination will take longer."
Marcus nodded.
"Then we do what we can. Nothing gets released without proper verification."
Elena looked at him.
"You're planning to attend the press conference?"
"Yes."
"Are you sure that's wise?"
Marcus gave a faint smile.
"I think Commissioner Harrington is expecting me to stay away."
David stood.
"Then let's not disappoint him."
At 9:10 a.m., Commissioner Harrington stepped onto the platform outside the administration building.
The crowd immediately became quiet.
Behind him stood Chief Lawson, Deputy Chief Mitchell, several city council members, and representatives from local community organizations.
The commissioner adjusted the microphone.
"Good morning, everyone. Thank you for joining us today."
Cameras began recording.
"For many years, the Brookhaven Police Department has served this community with dedication and professionalism. However, we recognize that public trust must never be taken for granted."
He paused.
"That is why I am pleased to announce a comprehensive accountability initiative designed to strengthen transparency, improve communication, and ensure that every resident receives fair treatment."
Several reporters began writing.
Harrington continued.
"We are committed to learning from past mistakes and building a department that reflects the highest standards of integrity."
Behind him, Mitchell smiled.
Chief Lawson looked less comfortable.
The commissioner gestured toward a presentation board.
"Today, we are introducing independent complaint monitoring, additional officer training, and a new review process for disputed police encounters."
The applause was polite.
Then a reporter raised her hand.
"Commissioner, does this initiative relate to the seventeen complaints currently under review?"
Harrington's smile remained in place.
"We take every complaint seriously. Some matters are still being examined, and I cannot comment on individual cases."
Another reporter spoke.
"Are you aware that former Officer James Parker has accused senior department officials of suppressing evidence?"
Harrington paused.
Only for a second.
But the cameras captured it.
"I am aware that former employees sometimes make allegations after leaving an organization. We encourage anyone with legitimate information to provide it through the appropriate channels."
A third reporter raised his microphone.
"Is it true that an officer named Daniel Whitmore was involved in several disputed encounters?"
The commissioner looked toward Chief Lawson.
"Every officer is expected to follow department policy."
Then a familiar voice came from the back of the crowd.
"Commissioner, would you be willing to answer questions about the recordings?"
Harrington turned.
Marcus Bennett was walking toward the platform.
David Reynolds followed him.
Two state investigators stood several steps behind them.
The commissioner's expression changed.
"Mr. Bennett."
"Good morning, Commissioner."
Harrington forced a smile.
"I wasn't aware you were attending."
"I imagine you weren't."
A few reporters turned their cameras toward Marcus.
The commissioner stepped away from the microphone.
"Perhaps we can arrange a private meeting."
Marcus shook his head.
"I believe this matter deserves a public explanation."
Harrington's voice became quieter.
"This is not the appropriate place."
Marcus looked at the cameras.
"Then perhaps you should have chosen a different place to announce your department's commitment to accountability."
The crowd began murmuring.
Marcus continued.
"You've just told the public that your department is committed to transparency. I have a few questions about that commitment."
Harrington looked toward the security officers.
"Mr. Bennett, I must ask you to respect the proceedings."
"I am respecting them. I'm asking questions."
David stepped forward.