Zilhouette Murders, page 26
“What, you’ve been round there?”
“Yes, that’s the address we have for you on file.”
Brian actually smiled.
“Where are you going to go?” asked Pauline
“Well, the lady at number 37 doesn’t want her husband to know so I took a pretend job as a handyman so I didn’t have to explain why I was there a lot. I don’t think her husband suspected but my wife found out and she’s already left. I don’t really want another marriage ruined over this so I have agreed to leave. I’ll put my things in storage and take up a position in France until I get myself sorted.”
“Why didn’t you tell me Brian?”
“You had enough on your plate with work and the tragedy over Margaret, I didn’t want to burden you with this. Anyway, I have to go. I am getting the Euro-tunnel from Felixstowe so I need to get a move on. My furniture and belongings will follow me in a week or so when I’m settled. Sorry to have left you in the lurch a bit Anton but I just needed to get away before Mr. 37 puts two and two together.” Brian joked.
There were hugs all round and promises to keep in touch and Anton and Pauline headed back to their offices chattering all the way about how they didn’t have a clue.
“Well I for one had no idea Pauline, what about you?”
“Not a clue but then Brian was never really a photo-copier confessor, if you know what I mean.”
Anton smiled at the strange description of an office gossip but then thought maybe this was Pauline’s role; and maybe he was the subject of similar discussions. He shook himself out of this chain of thought as he drove into the office car park.
“I’ll start on the notes on this latest case Anton.” said Pauline as she started to get out of the car.
“Hang on a second please Pauline.” said Anton.
She got back into the car and faced Anton. “What’s on your mind Anton?”
“Can we keep this Brian thing between us. Even though his wife has left him there might be a chance they could get back together, so the fewer people who know the better, Agree?”
“Of course Anton, agreed.”
They both got out the car and made their way back to their own offices. When Anton got to his desk there was a large Post-it attached to his screen; Call David Cunningham. Juliet.
CHAPTER 51
David Cunningham was sitting at his desk head in his hands as he looked through the report prepared by Viv Roberts, updating him on the progress of the ‘Zilhouette’ Murders’ case. At the end of the report Viv had summarised the current position.
‘After changing the investigation rationale behind the ‘Zilhouette’ murders’ selection of victims all efforts have been directed toward finding out whether close relatives of the victims had recently been seconded to Jury duty. To date, not one single confirmed appointment of any relative has been uncovered and although investigations continue, it appears this latest direction of enquiries is not going to provide any additional help in catching the murderer.’
“Fuck, fuck fuck!” said David Cunningham to himself as he finished reading the summary. He leaned back in his chair and looked to the ceiling for inspiration when his phone rang.
“Hello?”
“David, it’s Anton you rang me.”
David Cunningham explained the results of the investigation into the relatives of victims and added, “I just don’t know where to go from here Anton and I kinda hoped you might make some suggestions.
Anton thought for a moment.
“How far back are your people looking David?”
“Way back Anton, almost to the births of the victims.”
“Maybe it’s too wide a search. Maybe the killer has been drawn into this by a recent event. What has happened recently which might have some relationship to these people or the way they have been murdered? We agreed from the start these people were selected and the first victim was found what, two months ago? It’s therefore logical something happened just before two months ago which resulted in our killer starting to eliminate his targeted victims.”
David was listening to his colleague and making some notes – ‘Before two months ago; targeted victims.’
“Are you still there David?”
“Yes, sorry Anton I was thinking about what you had said and it makes sense. Our killer only started about two months ago so the event which caused him to start on his killing spree must have only happened before then. Anton, that’s brilliant. I’ll call you later, thanks and bye.”
Anton was left holding the receiver listening to the dialling tone after David Cunningham had ended the call so abruptly.
‘You are welcome;’ he said to the receiver as he replaced it on it’s cradle.
David rose from his chair and headed for the detective area. When he arrived there were six detectives busily working away on the victim files, including Peter Wicker.
“Can I have your attention please?”
All the detectives present put down their files and turned toward DI Cunningham.
“I’ve just been speaking with Professor Schwartz and he has raised a very pertinent point about our investigation which, quite frankly I had missed. We both still think the investigation is heading in the right direction but Anton has pointed out our killer only began his murders just over two months ago. It therefore follows whatever triggered the killers actions may also have happened around two months ago so, let’s just concentrate of events during this narrow time frame.”
Peter Wicker stood up. “Excuse me Sir but the obvious thing that happened was Steven Monarch getting out of prison early after his successful appeal.”
David Cunningham took a sharp intake of breath, “Of course, Steven Monarch’s early release and he was responsible for at least one confirmed murder and the ‘Zilhouette’ killer is killing these people the same way Monarch disposed of his victims. Great call Peter! Let’s concentrate on Monarch and the people involved in his release; then look at the victims of the ‘Sweetie murderer’ thirteen years ago and see if there is any connection between these people and both the current victims and relatives of the people involved in Monarch’s successful appeal. So that’s the judges, legal representatives, any professional witnesses...” he paused and took his mobile out of his pocket and dialled.
“So, you’ve called back to finish our conversation then David?”
“No, Anton, simple question. Were you involved in providing any evidence in the appeal hearing of Steven Monarch?” David Cunningham held his breath waiting for Anton to reply.
“Well yes, I was called to provide a professional opinion on the evidence which convicted Monarch of the four murders back then, I don’t remember the exact date, I can get it if you need. Why do you ask?”
“Anton, our killer is murdering people related to those who assisted Monarch’s successful appeal and release.”
The line went quiet but David though he heard Anton crying.
“Are you OK Anton?”
“You mean Margaret was killed because I gave evidence in Monarch’s appeal?”
“I think so Anton. I am so sorry.”
“Nothing to be sorry about David. Not your fault. Now, if you know why these women have been killed, you just need to find the person who is doing this and I would guess they feel the early release of Monarch was so unnecessary the loved ones of those involved in the decision to release him deserve to feel the same pain the killer has endured. My God, David this is just terrible.”
David Cunningham remained silent for a second digesting Anton’s summary before replying. “Well, we now know who we are looking for. I’ll call you later Anton but in the meantime, if you have any more ideas please give me a call.”
He ended the call and directed his attention to the detectives in the room who had only heard one side of the conversation but felt they knew what Anton had said.
“Right, Anton confirmed he did play a part in securing Monarch’s early release so I want you to look into what we discussed earlier, find anyone who was involved in securing Monarch’s early release regardless of how little and let’s develop a list of these people and see if we can match them to the victims. At the same time, get copies of the file from Peter on the ‘Sweetie’ murders and see if there is any connection with those victims. OK?”
There was a general hum of approval from the room as David left the area and went back to his office. He decided he should keep Frank Adams updated so he called his secretary.
“He’s not in today Detective, in fact, he hasn’t been in for a couple of days. Can I take a message?”
“Just tell him I would like to see him please.” then David cleared the line.
CHAPTER 52
Peter Wicker opened the files on the ‘Sweetie’ murders for his colleagues to gather background information. Viv was called in to assist.
“Viv, can you please free up a section on the board or get an additional board to accommodate information on the victims in the ‘Sweetie’ murders and possible people involved in the process which released Steven Monarch from prison early. Then, can you see if there is any cross-reference between the victims of thirteen years ago and the people on the list you have created. I am looking for parents, uncles, aunts, cousins and even step-children. There has to be a common thread here Viv and I know you can find it because, find the thread and we’ll find our killer.”
Viv smiled and collected the files then headed for an empty desk. She made space on the board and started to take photos out of the ‘Sweetie’ murder file and put them on the board. When she had finished, she stood back to take a look and Peter Wicker stood beside her.
“Great work Viv; now, where are you?
At the top of the board were five photos of young women which were obviously from family albums because they were all smiling and looking very happy with life.
Below each photo Viv had written their name, date of birth and date their mutilated body was found. Then Viv had drawn a number of arrows at the bottom of the photo and where each arrow stopped a sub-title showed known family members, known relationships and close friends.
“Peter, these files haven’t been updated for over ten years so some of this is going to be out of date.” said Viv.
“I know Viv but we need to have everything known at the time of the murder,” replied Peter Wicker and studied the wall from his desk. An hour or so later Viv stood in front of the remaining detectives to announce “I’ve finished.” A spontaneous round of applause started along with some gentle back slapping.
Peter Wicker stood up. “Can I have your attention please. Viv has done this great job and I want you to think for a moment. On this wall is the link to the murderer. All we have to do is find him! I suggest all five victims are divided between us to prevent duplication and we can then come back together in say two hours to see whether any group has uncovered anything. Of course, if anyone finds something interesting please bring to our attention. Thanks.”
Peter sat back down and he and Viv divided the five victims between the detectives. He then called David Cunningham to let him know where they were.
“So this is what we have done Sir and I am now much more confident we will come up with at least one name.” said Peter after explaining what had happened with the files.
“OK Peter, I’ll come down in two hours, or earlier if something comes to light.”
The detective area was a hive of activity with a general hum of voices in the background. Telephones were ringing and some heated conversations were taking place but the closer the two-hour point got the less enthusiasm there appeared to be.
Even Peter and Steven Warrington were less positive when their investigation surrounding Charlotte Windsor who was the third victim in the Sweetie murder case, revealed nothing.
“This is impossible.” suggested Steven Warrington.
“Come on Steven, it’s here, the information we need is right in front of us or one of the other groups, we have to keep trying.”
From the other side of the room one of the DC’s stood up waving a piece of paper in the air.
“I’ve got something here! I think I have it!”
The room descended into silence as Peter Wicker got up and walked over to the other side of the room where the DC was standing.
“I think this is it.” DC Menton said as he handed Peter a piece of paper.
As if in slow motion Peter took the paper and looked down at the work his colleague had completed. Under the title Alison Watson were a number of crudely written lines pointing to more text with names written, crossed out then re-written further down the page until at the bottom of the page in large letters was Pauline Johnson. “Who’s Pauline Johnson, Stuart?”
“Turn over the page.” replied DC Menton.
Peter turned over the page to see handwritten notes from Stuart Menton. It clearly said.
Pauline Adams married Albert Watson in 1984 and had a daughter Alison shortly afterwards. In 2003 Albert and Pauline were divorced and Pauline re-married Simon Fellows in 2009 and settled in Weybridge where they still live. They had no more children but Pauline remained very close to Alison until she was a victim of the Sweetie murder in 2005.
“Pauline Fellows, Stuart? Are you absolutely sure?”
“Checked it twice. It’s correct.”
At this point David Cunningham walked in and guessed from the atmosphere something had been uncovered.
“What have we got then Peter?”
Peter Wicker said nothing, he just handed the piece of paper with Stuart Menton’s scribble. “See for yourself Sir.”
David took the piece of paper whilst still looking at Peter Wicker. He glanced down at the scribble and then turned over the sheet and drew in a sharp deep breath as he read the name written in large capital letters.
“This can’t be true Peter. A woman couldn’t have done this.”
“This woman could.” said Stuart Menton, “she’s a fitness fanatic. Runs marathons and competes in triathlons; she is mega strong and fit.”
“But, could a woman be that brutal?” asked David Cunningham. “A woman whose only daughter was slaughtered by a man who was released early from prison could Sir.”
David Cunningham looked down again at the piece of paper and sat down wondering how best to tell his friend Anton the woman he was working with murdered his sister.
He collected his thoughts and decided how to move forward. “This is what is going to happen. I am going to get Anton Schwartz to come and see me whilst Peter Wicker and three others go and arrest Pauline Fellows. No one is to mention anything about this until we have Pauline Fellows in custody and I will need to speak to DS Adams about this.”
“Excuse me Sir.” said Stuart Menton, “there is more information I think you should see.”
Stuart Menton handed the Inspector anther piece of paper with one sentence written across the middle.
‘Chief Inspector Adams is Pauline Fellows’ father.’
David rapidly understood the implications of this but firstly congratulated Stuart Menton for his work. “Great work Stuart. In fact great work everyone. I need to emphasise to you none of this is to leave this room, understood?”
There was agreement in the room and David put his hand on Peter Wicker’s shoulder. “Come with me please Peter.” Both men left the room and paused in the corridor.
“You realise what this means Peter?”
“Yes Sir, I do.”
“I have to call the Chief Constable’s Office and request help with the arrest and charging of Frank Adams. I can’t do this, it has to be someone of the same rank or above who handles this so, let me do this now and we will decide how best to handle Pauline Fellows.” Yes Sir. I’ll wait here while you make the call.”
“No Peter, don’t be silly, come into my office.”
Both men headed back upstairs and Peter sat in a chair while his boss sat behind his desk and called the Chief Constable’s office.
Peter only heard one side of the conversation but gathered there was some real doubt one of his senior officers could be involved in such a terrible crime; but after David explained the background and the connection between CS Frank Adams and the main suspect in the ‘Zilhouette’ murders whoever he was talking with came round and believed the Inspector.
“He isn’t in the office today Sir and I don’t know whether he is in tomorrow but I’m sure his secretary will know. Thank you, Sir, Bye.”
David Cunningham put the phone back in the cradle, sat back in his chair and let out a big sigh. “I hope Menton has got this right Peter, otherwise we are all in deep shit!”
“I’m sure he has Sir.” replied Peter Wicker.
“OK, I’m going to call Anton and figure out how to get him over here while you and your colleagues go and pick up Pauline Fellows.” He picked up the phone and called Anton. “Hi Anton, how are things going?”
“Fine David.”
Anton was puzzled because David never really called socially. “Have you had a busy day Anton... got a full house of pathologists?”
“Actually no.”
Anton was thinking this call was getting more weird.
David’s heart sank and he covered the mouthpiece and mouthed to Peter “She’s not there.”
“Actually, we have discovered something alarming here which means we are going to be a pathologist light in the short term,” continued Anton.
This rang alarm bells in David’s head and he turned once again to Peter and mouthed. “I think he knows.”
“Oh Anton, I am so sorry, how did you find out?”
“Well, we met earlier today and I was handed his letter of resignation completely out of the blue. No notice; not even staying until the end of the month, wanted to leave there and then.”
David stood up and was about to warn his friend about the murderer in his midst when Anton finished his sentence.
“And we are all going to miss Brian because he was such a great professional and he is going to be hard to replace. Fortunately I have Pauline and I know she is ready to step up until we find a replacement.”
“Oh, Brian has left?”
“Yes, that’s what I said.”
“Yes, that’s the address we have for you on file.”
Brian actually smiled.
“Where are you going to go?” asked Pauline
“Well, the lady at number 37 doesn’t want her husband to know so I took a pretend job as a handyman so I didn’t have to explain why I was there a lot. I don’t think her husband suspected but my wife found out and she’s already left. I don’t really want another marriage ruined over this so I have agreed to leave. I’ll put my things in storage and take up a position in France until I get myself sorted.”
“Why didn’t you tell me Brian?”
“You had enough on your plate with work and the tragedy over Margaret, I didn’t want to burden you with this. Anyway, I have to go. I am getting the Euro-tunnel from Felixstowe so I need to get a move on. My furniture and belongings will follow me in a week or so when I’m settled. Sorry to have left you in the lurch a bit Anton but I just needed to get away before Mr. 37 puts two and two together.” Brian joked.
There were hugs all round and promises to keep in touch and Anton and Pauline headed back to their offices chattering all the way about how they didn’t have a clue.
“Well I for one had no idea Pauline, what about you?”
“Not a clue but then Brian was never really a photo-copier confessor, if you know what I mean.”
Anton smiled at the strange description of an office gossip but then thought maybe this was Pauline’s role; and maybe he was the subject of similar discussions. He shook himself out of this chain of thought as he drove into the office car park.
“I’ll start on the notes on this latest case Anton.” said Pauline as she started to get out of the car.
“Hang on a second please Pauline.” said Anton.
She got back into the car and faced Anton. “What’s on your mind Anton?”
“Can we keep this Brian thing between us. Even though his wife has left him there might be a chance they could get back together, so the fewer people who know the better, Agree?”
“Of course Anton, agreed.”
They both got out the car and made their way back to their own offices. When Anton got to his desk there was a large Post-it attached to his screen; Call David Cunningham. Juliet.
CHAPTER 51
David Cunningham was sitting at his desk head in his hands as he looked through the report prepared by Viv Roberts, updating him on the progress of the ‘Zilhouette’ Murders’ case. At the end of the report Viv had summarised the current position.
‘After changing the investigation rationale behind the ‘Zilhouette’ murders’ selection of victims all efforts have been directed toward finding out whether close relatives of the victims had recently been seconded to Jury duty. To date, not one single confirmed appointment of any relative has been uncovered and although investigations continue, it appears this latest direction of enquiries is not going to provide any additional help in catching the murderer.’
“Fuck, fuck fuck!” said David Cunningham to himself as he finished reading the summary. He leaned back in his chair and looked to the ceiling for inspiration when his phone rang.
“Hello?”
“David, it’s Anton you rang me.”
David Cunningham explained the results of the investigation into the relatives of victims and added, “I just don’t know where to go from here Anton and I kinda hoped you might make some suggestions.
Anton thought for a moment.
“How far back are your people looking David?”
“Way back Anton, almost to the births of the victims.”
“Maybe it’s too wide a search. Maybe the killer has been drawn into this by a recent event. What has happened recently which might have some relationship to these people or the way they have been murdered? We agreed from the start these people were selected and the first victim was found what, two months ago? It’s therefore logical something happened just before two months ago which resulted in our killer starting to eliminate his targeted victims.”
David was listening to his colleague and making some notes – ‘Before two months ago; targeted victims.’
“Are you still there David?”
“Yes, sorry Anton I was thinking about what you had said and it makes sense. Our killer only started about two months ago so the event which caused him to start on his killing spree must have only happened before then. Anton, that’s brilliant. I’ll call you later, thanks and bye.”
Anton was left holding the receiver listening to the dialling tone after David Cunningham had ended the call so abruptly.
‘You are welcome;’ he said to the receiver as he replaced it on it’s cradle.
David rose from his chair and headed for the detective area. When he arrived there were six detectives busily working away on the victim files, including Peter Wicker.
“Can I have your attention please?”
All the detectives present put down their files and turned toward DI Cunningham.
“I’ve just been speaking with Professor Schwartz and he has raised a very pertinent point about our investigation which, quite frankly I had missed. We both still think the investigation is heading in the right direction but Anton has pointed out our killer only began his murders just over two months ago. It therefore follows whatever triggered the killers actions may also have happened around two months ago so, let’s just concentrate of events during this narrow time frame.”
Peter Wicker stood up. “Excuse me Sir but the obvious thing that happened was Steven Monarch getting out of prison early after his successful appeal.”
David Cunningham took a sharp intake of breath, “Of course, Steven Monarch’s early release and he was responsible for at least one confirmed murder and the ‘Zilhouette’ killer is killing these people the same way Monarch disposed of his victims. Great call Peter! Let’s concentrate on Monarch and the people involved in his release; then look at the victims of the ‘Sweetie murderer’ thirteen years ago and see if there is any connection between these people and both the current victims and relatives of the people involved in Monarch’s successful appeal. So that’s the judges, legal representatives, any professional witnesses...” he paused and took his mobile out of his pocket and dialled.
“So, you’ve called back to finish our conversation then David?”
“No, Anton, simple question. Were you involved in providing any evidence in the appeal hearing of Steven Monarch?” David Cunningham held his breath waiting for Anton to reply.
“Well yes, I was called to provide a professional opinion on the evidence which convicted Monarch of the four murders back then, I don’t remember the exact date, I can get it if you need. Why do you ask?”
“Anton, our killer is murdering people related to those who assisted Monarch’s successful appeal and release.”
The line went quiet but David though he heard Anton crying.
“Are you OK Anton?”
“You mean Margaret was killed because I gave evidence in Monarch’s appeal?”
“I think so Anton. I am so sorry.”
“Nothing to be sorry about David. Not your fault. Now, if you know why these women have been killed, you just need to find the person who is doing this and I would guess they feel the early release of Monarch was so unnecessary the loved ones of those involved in the decision to release him deserve to feel the same pain the killer has endured. My God, David this is just terrible.”
David Cunningham remained silent for a second digesting Anton’s summary before replying. “Well, we now know who we are looking for. I’ll call you later Anton but in the meantime, if you have any more ideas please give me a call.”
He ended the call and directed his attention to the detectives in the room who had only heard one side of the conversation but felt they knew what Anton had said.
“Right, Anton confirmed he did play a part in securing Monarch’s early release so I want you to look into what we discussed earlier, find anyone who was involved in securing Monarch’s early release regardless of how little and let’s develop a list of these people and see if we can match them to the victims. At the same time, get copies of the file from Peter on the ‘Sweetie’ murders and see if there is any connection with those victims. OK?”
There was a general hum of approval from the room as David left the area and went back to his office. He decided he should keep Frank Adams updated so he called his secretary.
“He’s not in today Detective, in fact, he hasn’t been in for a couple of days. Can I take a message?”
“Just tell him I would like to see him please.” then David cleared the line.
CHAPTER 52
Peter Wicker opened the files on the ‘Sweetie’ murders for his colleagues to gather background information. Viv was called in to assist.
“Viv, can you please free up a section on the board or get an additional board to accommodate information on the victims in the ‘Sweetie’ murders and possible people involved in the process which released Steven Monarch from prison early. Then, can you see if there is any cross-reference between the victims of thirteen years ago and the people on the list you have created. I am looking for parents, uncles, aunts, cousins and even step-children. There has to be a common thread here Viv and I know you can find it because, find the thread and we’ll find our killer.”
Viv smiled and collected the files then headed for an empty desk. She made space on the board and started to take photos out of the ‘Sweetie’ murder file and put them on the board. When she had finished, she stood back to take a look and Peter Wicker stood beside her.
“Great work Viv; now, where are you?
At the top of the board were five photos of young women which were obviously from family albums because they were all smiling and looking very happy with life.
Below each photo Viv had written their name, date of birth and date their mutilated body was found. Then Viv had drawn a number of arrows at the bottom of the photo and where each arrow stopped a sub-title showed known family members, known relationships and close friends.
“Peter, these files haven’t been updated for over ten years so some of this is going to be out of date.” said Viv.
“I know Viv but we need to have everything known at the time of the murder,” replied Peter Wicker and studied the wall from his desk. An hour or so later Viv stood in front of the remaining detectives to announce “I’ve finished.” A spontaneous round of applause started along with some gentle back slapping.
Peter Wicker stood up. “Can I have your attention please. Viv has done this great job and I want you to think for a moment. On this wall is the link to the murderer. All we have to do is find him! I suggest all five victims are divided between us to prevent duplication and we can then come back together in say two hours to see whether any group has uncovered anything. Of course, if anyone finds something interesting please bring to our attention. Thanks.”
Peter sat back down and he and Viv divided the five victims between the detectives. He then called David Cunningham to let him know where they were.
“So this is what we have done Sir and I am now much more confident we will come up with at least one name.” said Peter after explaining what had happened with the files.
“OK Peter, I’ll come down in two hours, or earlier if something comes to light.”
The detective area was a hive of activity with a general hum of voices in the background. Telephones were ringing and some heated conversations were taking place but the closer the two-hour point got the less enthusiasm there appeared to be.
Even Peter and Steven Warrington were less positive when their investigation surrounding Charlotte Windsor who was the third victim in the Sweetie murder case, revealed nothing.
“This is impossible.” suggested Steven Warrington.
“Come on Steven, it’s here, the information we need is right in front of us or one of the other groups, we have to keep trying.”
From the other side of the room one of the DC’s stood up waving a piece of paper in the air.
“I’ve got something here! I think I have it!”
The room descended into silence as Peter Wicker got up and walked over to the other side of the room where the DC was standing.
“I think this is it.” DC Menton said as he handed Peter a piece of paper.
As if in slow motion Peter took the paper and looked down at the work his colleague had completed. Under the title Alison Watson were a number of crudely written lines pointing to more text with names written, crossed out then re-written further down the page until at the bottom of the page in large letters was Pauline Johnson. “Who’s Pauline Johnson, Stuart?”
“Turn over the page.” replied DC Menton.
Peter turned over the page to see handwritten notes from Stuart Menton. It clearly said.
Pauline Adams married Albert Watson in 1984 and had a daughter Alison shortly afterwards. In 2003 Albert and Pauline were divorced and Pauline re-married Simon Fellows in 2009 and settled in Weybridge where they still live. They had no more children but Pauline remained very close to Alison until she was a victim of the Sweetie murder in 2005.
“Pauline Fellows, Stuart? Are you absolutely sure?”
“Checked it twice. It’s correct.”
At this point David Cunningham walked in and guessed from the atmosphere something had been uncovered.
“What have we got then Peter?”
Peter Wicker said nothing, he just handed the piece of paper with Stuart Menton’s scribble. “See for yourself Sir.”
David took the piece of paper whilst still looking at Peter Wicker. He glanced down at the scribble and then turned over the sheet and drew in a sharp deep breath as he read the name written in large capital letters.
“This can’t be true Peter. A woman couldn’t have done this.”
“This woman could.” said Stuart Menton, “she’s a fitness fanatic. Runs marathons and competes in triathlons; she is mega strong and fit.”
“But, could a woman be that brutal?” asked David Cunningham. “A woman whose only daughter was slaughtered by a man who was released early from prison could Sir.”
David Cunningham looked down again at the piece of paper and sat down wondering how best to tell his friend Anton the woman he was working with murdered his sister.
He collected his thoughts and decided how to move forward. “This is what is going to happen. I am going to get Anton Schwartz to come and see me whilst Peter Wicker and three others go and arrest Pauline Fellows. No one is to mention anything about this until we have Pauline Fellows in custody and I will need to speak to DS Adams about this.”
“Excuse me Sir.” said Stuart Menton, “there is more information I think you should see.”
Stuart Menton handed the Inspector anther piece of paper with one sentence written across the middle.
‘Chief Inspector Adams is Pauline Fellows’ father.’
David rapidly understood the implications of this but firstly congratulated Stuart Menton for his work. “Great work Stuart. In fact great work everyone. I need to emphasise to you none of this is to leave this room, understood?”
There was agreement in the room and David put his hand on Peter Wicker’s shoulder. “Come with me please Peter.” Both men left the room and paused in the corridor.
“You realise what this means Peter?”
“Yes Sir, I do.”
“I have to call the Chief Constable’s Office and request help with the arrest and charging of Frank Adams. I can’t do this, it has to be someone of the same rank or above who handles this so, let me do this now and we will decide how best to handle Pauline Fellows.” Yes Sir. I’ll wait here while you make the call.”
“No Peter, don’t be silly, come into my office.”
Both men headed back upstairs and Peter sat in a chair while his boss sat behind his desk and called the Chief Constable’s office.
Peter only heard one side of the conversation but gathered there was some real doubt one of his senior officers could be involved in such a terrible crime; but after David explained the background and the connection between CS Frank Adams and the main suspect in the ‘Zilhouette’ murders whoever he was talking with came round and believed the Inspector.
“He isn’t in the office today Sir and I don’t know whether he is in tomorrow but I’m sure his secretary will know. Thank you, Sir, Bye.”
David Cunningham put the phone back in the cradle, sat back in his chair and let out a big sigh. “I hope Menton has got this right Peter, otherwise we are all in deep shit!”
“I’m sure he has Sir.” replied Peter Wicker.
“OK, I’m going to call Anton and figure out how to get him over here while you and your colleagues go and pick up Pauline Fellows.” He picked up the phone and called Anton. “Hi Anton, how are things going?”
“Fine David.”
Anton was puzzled because David never really called socially. “Have you had a busy day Anton... got a full house of pathologists?”
“Actually no.”
Anton was thinking this call was getting more weird.
David’s heart sank and he covered the mouthpiece and mouthed to Peter “She’s not there.”
“Actually, we have discovered something alarming here which means we are going to be a pathologist light in the short term,” continued Anton.
This rang alarm bells in David’s head and he turned once again to Peter and mouthed. “I think he knows.”
“Oh Anton, I am so sorry, how did you find out?”
“Well, we met earlier today and I was handed his letter of resignation completely out of the blue. No notice; not even staying until the end of the month, wanted to leave there and then.”
David stood up and was about to warn his friend about the murderer in his midst when Anton finished his sentence.
“And we are all going to miss Brian because he was such a great professional and he is going to be hard to replace. Fortunately I have Pauline and I know she is ready to step up until we find a replacement.”
“Oh, Brian has left?”
“Yes, that’s what I said.”
