With Intent

By Noel Lipton

Rob Hidden is not a nice guy. Hes a criminal, and he likes being a criminal. Hes good at it, and he finds that doing bad stuff makes him feel good. One night this heartless villain comes home to his wife, who informs him the police are on his tail. He lashes out at her, and so began a tirade that would lead to abuse, robbery, and murder. It all started when Rob decides to hide out at the home of his friend, Dave Cart.

It appears Dave wasnt expecting company. Seeing the huge pile of money on his table, Rob decides to do what he does best: steal the money and shoot Dave. Seasoned police officer Morgan Sill is called to the scene, but Rob doesnt get far before he is spotted. Sill chases him down, forcing Rob to drop the murder weaponjust what the police need to charge Rob and get him to court.

Nothing is simple, though. First, the court must decide if Rob is fit for trial or if hes too blatantly crazy to even receive a sentence. Then, theres the court-appointed slimeball lawyer, Crabtree, who will say anything to keep his client out of jail. Sill is worried that Rob is going to get off without even a slap on the wrist. Is there anything the cops can do to stop him, or will evil prevail in the streets?

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Jul 11, 2012
• ISBN: 9781469790862

Noel Lipton

Noel Lipton served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970 and retired from the service in 1971 after receiving serious injuries in action. He then received a degree in law enforcement and worked for three years with the West Seattle Security Police until he became too disabled to continue work. He now lives in Kansas with his wife.

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

______________________

A city cab was driving down the street, and it turned into a parking lot, stopping in front of an apartment.

Rob opened the car door, and stepped out, he turned around as if someone was looking at him, he reached into his pocket and pulled out some money and handed it to the cab driver, then closed the door. He turned and walked to the apartment door, and took out a set of keys. He picked through them finding the right one. He placed key in the door unlocking it; he opened it and walked in.

Jill was standing in front of the sink washing the dishes. She was small for being seventeen, with long dark hair, down to the small of her back. Hearing someone comes in the front door, she turned her head, seeing Rob. With a disgusted look on her face, she picked up a dishtowel and wiped her hands. She placed the dishtowel on the counter and moved her long brown hair back over her shoulders.

Rob slowly closed the door; he leaned against it with his back and stood there momentarily looking at her, thinking how pretty she was.

Turning toward Rob, leaning up against the counter, Jill said. There was a cop here looking for you this morning, What kind of trouble are you into this time, Rob?" Turning, she picked up the dishtowel and started drying the dishes.

Did you clean the apartment? Rob asked, looking around the room.

Turning her head, she looked at Rob. Yes, I’ve been cleaning since I got up this morning, and don’t change the subject

Nothing that can’t be taken care of. Rob said, walking over to the couch to see if Jill had found his 41 Magnum he had taken from his friend, Dave Cart, the day before. Bending over, he found it under the couch. Standing up he turned toward Jill and placed the revolver under his jacket in his belt.

Jill threw the dishtowel down on the counter, looking at Rob, she yelled in a whining voice. I’m tired of the police coming around every week looking for you. I should have listened to my dad, he said you were no good.

The hell with your dad! Rob said, as he moved toward Jill.

At least my dad doesn’t steal for a living. Jill replies. Picking up the dishtowel and backing up toward the kitchen wall. If I’d known what you were really like, I would have never married you.

We all know the truth in this marriage, don’t we? Rob said, moving closer to Jill.

With a surprised look on her face. I don’t know what you are talking about.

The hell you don’t. Rob retorts, slapping his hand on the counter. "It’s because my dad has money and own’s the local grocery store, the biggest one in town isn’t it?

Well you won’t get shit. He won’t let his bad seed of a son work for him, not in this lifetime? Walking around the counter where Jill was standing.

Jill put up the dishtowel, with a dish inside it, to cover her face.

Grabbing her arms, he pulled Jill toward him. He backhands her on the side of her face, knocking Jill up against the wall. She dropped the dish, and the dish hit’s the floor, breaking it, looking at the dish on the floor, and then looking back at Jill.

Now see what you’ve done. You broke the damn dish! Rob said, as he was pointing toward the dish on the floor, hitting her again.

Placing the dishtowel up to her face she wiped the tears away. With a discussed look on her face and stomping her foot, swinging the dishtowel hitting Rob with it.

If you ever hit me again I’ll call the police! Jill said, her face red where Rob had hit her. Dropping the dishtowel, placing her hands to her face, and sliding toward the floor, now crying.

Bending over he grabbed her by the shoulders and yelled at her. You do and I’ll kill you…… you arrogant bitch! Pulling the gun out from the back of his pants, he puts the barrel to her head.

Moving her hands from her face and looking at Rob, she placed her hands up to her face closing her eyes and started to cry even harder, stomping the heels of her feet on the floor.

Rob pulled the trigger there was a click, click, click. Shaking as she was crying, she draws her knees up to her chest.

Standing up Rob was pointing his finger at Jill. You be here when I get back, if not, I’ll look you up and kill you! Rob turned around going into the bedroom, and then he came back out.

She was standing in the living room with an ashtray in her hand, stomping her foot.

I’m tired of you hitting me. She said as she raised the ashtray.

Rob ducked as he was moving toward her. Just as he stood up, he saw it coming. He stared to move, Whap right between the headlights, he stopped, putting both hands up to his face. Ooooooh Shit that hurts. Moving his hands away from his face, reaching out to grab Jill. She wasn’t there. Rob stood there blinking his eyes, and rubbing his face where the ashtray had hit him.

Over here you Jack Ass Jill said, standing up on the couch with a large candle in her hand. Rob turned seeing Jill standing up on the couch with a large candle. She raised it over her head.

Ooooooh no you don’t. As he started to run towards the front door. Getting it open, Rob stopped and stood there. He turned to look at Jill just as the candle flew passed him. Jill jumped off the couch picking up an ashtray.

Hell, she’s mad. Rob yelled.

Running out into the cull de sac into the parking lot by a parked car, Rob turned looking at the apartment door. Oh Shit, here comes another one. Turning he started to run. He could feel it as it passed over his head, hitting a windshield and cracking it. Rob ran for about a block before he stopped, deciding it would be best if he went over to see his friend Dave.

He walked up to the door, and started knocking.

Opening the door, Dave was standing there in his underwear. Hell, I was just thinking about the trash, and here you are, come in there’s a fresh pot of coffee on.

So I’m trash now? Rob said, as he entered the apartment.

If the shoe fit’s. Dave said, as he walked over to his chair.

I’ve got some money put together for us to get a large quantity of coke. Dave said as he sat down.

Well that’s good, Rob replied, closing the front door. He went into the kitchen and picked up a coffee cup and poured the coffee into it, he returns with his cup, and sees a large amount of money on the coffee table.

Where did you get that? Rob asked as he sat down.

I’ve got my sources. Dave said, leaning back in his chair. Get me a cup of coffee would you.

Sure. Rob said, getting up and walked towards the kitchen, Rob returned with the cup of coffee and handed the cup to him. Looking around Rob saw that the money was now gone.

Where’s the money? He said, as he sat down.

Put it up for now. Dave replied, taking sip of coffee.

The hell you did, I’ll just find it myself. Getting up.

The hell you are Dave replied, he placed his hands on the armrest as he started to get up.

Rob raised his leg and kicked out and knocked Dave back into his chair, he pulled out his revolver and pointed it at Dave.

Where did you find my gun? Dave asked, with a surprised look on his face.

Well, stupid, Rob said, as he reached out slapping Dave’s face. In your apartment, where else. Picking up a small pillow from the footstool, he placed it over the mussel of the revolver. Dave leaned forward reaching out for the revolver. Rob pulled the trigger; there was a muffled bang as the revolver fired. Dave grabbed his chest, as he fell back into his chair, almost knocking it over. Placing his hands on the armrest, he pushed trying to get up, groaning as he did, falling back, and slumping to one side.

Rob went into the bedroom and began ransacking and finding nothing. Going to the closet he opened the door and went through everything looking for the money but he couldn’t find it. He was pissed off now more than ever. Walking back to where Dave was sitting, he saw him slumped over to one side in his chair with his eyes open, and blood running down from the middle of his chest.

Yelling at him. Where’s the money, you Bastard? He picked up the small pillow and placed it over the mussel of the revolver; he shoots Dave two more times in the chest.

Pillow stuffing’s went flying everywhere. Throwing what was left of the pillow down on the floor, opening the cylinder, he popped out the empties, replacing them with fresh shell’s out of his pocket, and placed the revolver behind his back in the belt of his pants. Rob couldn’t hear now from the loud noise the gun made when fired. He looked around for Dave’s car keys, and found them on the table. He picked them up and went to the front door. He looked out from side to side to see if anyone was around stepping out and closing the door. He walked out to Dave’s car hoping that no one heard the gunshots. Stopping by the car to look around, he opens the door and gets in and turns the key. The dash light came on and then he turned the key a little more and there was nothing. Damned battery is dead. He said, slapping his hand on the steering wheel. He gets out of the car, kicks at the door, banging his shin on the base of the door.

Shit that was bright. Hopping around holding his leg, he drops his cigarettes. Rob pushed hard on the car door, it didn’t latch and bounced back hitting him on the shoulder, almost knocking him over.

Damn just not my day. Leaving the door open, Rob started walking down to the court house square, stopping every now and then to rub his shin.

As Rob got to the corner of the street, he reached for his cigarettes, but they were not there. Patting his shirt, he said. Well Damn. Turning he ran back to Dave’s car. He went around to the driver’s side; they were lying on the ground. Picking them up, placing the cigarettes in his pocket, he turned and started walking back towards town he knew that some people leave their cars running when they run into the stores, Rob hoped he would get lucky and find one. He needed to get out of town fast.

Meanwhile:

Jill picked up the phone and dialed 911

An operator answered, saying, What is your emergency?

Every 911 operator has to record the information on a computer readout page as well a tape is made of the recording of the call.

My husband pointed a gun at my head and pulled the trigger, but nothing happened. Jill said.

The gun was empty.

Yes, I think it was. Jill said. I’m scared.

What is your address?

Sunset Place 5808-A # 24 16th street Terrace, corner of Patton road and sixteenth.

What is your husband’s name?

Rob Hidden.

I’ll have a police officer pick Rob up as soon as they can find him, an officer will be there soon to take a statement.

Morgan Still, a big man, six foot, 200 pounds, had been on the police force for twenty-three years. He liked working as a beat cop, knowing almost everyone. He was just leaving the Zarah Mall where he had been checking on a shoplifting suspect when he got a call that Rob Hidden was to be picked up for Felony Assault with a firearm. Picking up his Mike, he answered it. 34.

Dispatch. Be on the lookout for one Rob Hidden, he is considered to be armed and dangerous.

Pushing the button on his mike. Morgan said. Received 34 out.

Morgan looked across the square. It was a nice day; few people were in the square since it was after 10 in the morning. Taking hold of his Mike on his shoulder, Morgan called on his radio, as he was looking across the Court House square. I’ve got the suspect spotted, he’s in the Court House Square, send backup. Morgan started walking towards the square.

Rob was walking along the curbing looking for cars with their engines still running.

Two police units were coming around the courthouse square. Rob stopped, seeing the two police cars. Turning towards Main Street, he started to walk fast. Stopping he looked around seeing Morgan. Ah damn, not him.

Morgan had arrested Rob before and he knew that he was tough. Rob turned and started towards Broadway, when he felt the gun fall out of his pants. Stopping he saw it lying in the grass, he looked up turning back around and started running, getting almost to the street, when two cop cars pulled up to block his way. Rob stopped momentarily, looking for a way out, like a caged animal. When he heard Morgan behind him, turning his head he looked at Morgan.

Freeze, you move and I’ll shoot. Morgan said. Taking his revolver out if his holster.

Looking at Morgan coming at him with his revolver out, Rob put his hands above his head. The two cops got out of their units revolvers drawn.

Morgan came running up huffing and puffing. Cuff him, and place him in one of the units, bending over, putting his hands on his knees, to get his breath.

You all right Morgan? The young officer asked, putting his hand on Morgan’s shoulder.

"Will be, in a moment after I get my breath back, looking up at the young officer.

Getting to old for this, he looked back at the ground.

You sure, I could call for an ambulance.

Looking up at the young officer, Do I look that bad?

Yes.

Standing up Morgan turned around, going back to where he thought he saw something fall to the ground. Walking over to where the revolver was lying he pulled a pen from his pocket, and picked it up by the barrel and walked back to the squad cars. He opened the car door, asking Rob,

This revolver yours? Spoken while he’s looking into the police car. Holding it out in front of him.

Looking up at Morgan with a smirk on his face, Rob said, You found it, you figure it out.

Morgan stood up placing his left hand on his back, and leaning back, One of you get an evidence bag and place it over this revolver, careful not to smudge any prints.

One of the young officers started to hand him a bag and Morgan shouted, No, rookie, put the bag over the weapon and mark it as being in the grass with heavy dew.

Here, he said, and then remarked, There is heavy dew in the grass today.

Turning he looked at Rob, You have a permit for this revolver Rob?

Rob sat there with a smug look on his face, Not to bright today are you…this county doesn’t give out permits, besides you ain’t got nothing on me, Pig.

That’s OK, I’ll be booking you for felony assault.

That’s OK flat foot, I’ll be out in the morning, and started laughing at officer Morgan.

The police station was just three blocks from the courthouse square. It took only a couple minutes to arrive. Rob was taken into the booking room. There was an attendant there that gave him jail clothes without asking him what size he took.

Morgan entered the booking room, Rob was looking at the jail clothes,This jumpsuit won’t fit me. Turning, he looked at the jailer, Hey, you got anything else?

The jailer looked back at Rob, Sorry, one size fits all, so put them on and quit your bellyaching.

As Morgan entered, Rob looked over at Morgan, You ain’t got nothing on me, Flat Foot.

Placing his hand on Rob’s shoulder squeezing it, Morgan said. Shut your face.

Letting go of his shoulder Morgan turned walking over to the property room Sergeant.

She was sitting down working on some paper work, looking up, Morning, Morgan.

Morning Sergeant. He handed the revolver to the Sergeant - still in its bag.

This needs to be finger printed.

Getting up she picked up surgical gloves to handle the firearm taking it out of the evidence bag and looked at the Serial Number on the butt plate, she discovered that it was marked Police Range #12.

Turning it towards Morgan, This is one of the two firearms that were taken from the Police Range.

Leaning on the counter, Morgan said, Then he’ll be charged with felony possession of a firearm. Morgan turned walking back into booking and getting the jailer.

The Jailer looked up from his desk and asked, What’s up Morgan? He looked over at Rob, standing there putting his jumpsuit on.

I need to get Rob out of the cell, He needs to be booked on Felony Possession of a firearm.

Getting up and picking up the jail keys, he said. Let’s go.

Morgan was standing in front of the cell door. Rob front and center.

Getting up from the table where he was playing cards, What’s up. Ass-Hole?

Opening the cell door, Morgan said, Booking you for felony possession of a firearm…that’s what’s up.

Pointing his finger at Morgan, Rob yelled, Hey Flat Foot, that’s not my gun,

Morgan turned towards Rob, picking Rob up by the front of his shirt off the floor.

You call me Officer Morgan, putting him down.

With a smirk on his face, raising his right hand to his forehead Rob said, Yes Sir, Officer Morgan.

The jailer was standing in front of the camera making out the name card and placing some numbers on it. Here, take this and stand over there. Look into the camera, turn to your right. Rob turned left. Your other right. Rob turned the other way. That’s good, after getting him finger printed and his picture taken.

When they were finished Morgan took Rob into the holding cell where thirty other men were being held, some of whom looked like they were mean as hell.

This is the place to keep your face shut, Morgan said, pushing Rob into the cell and closing the cell door behind him.

Rob turned and looked at Morgan as he left. Turning back, he started walking towards one of the cells, pulling on the front of his uniform. Looking down at it, it was lose, quite lose, not liking the jail clothes he had on because they were too loose, walking over to an empty cell, laying out the mat and lying down, Rob had just closed his eyes.

Tiny looked over at the cell. The other inmates were looking over at the cell not saying a word. What’s this? That’s my bunk. Tiny said.

Getting up, Tiny walked over to the cell door and walked in stopping in front of the bunk.

Hey you, get off of my bunk.

Opening his eyes he looked up seeing this big man looking like a barn door, about 6’ 8" 300 hundred pounds, having the face of bull dog.

Hey this is my bunk. Tiny said. Thumbing his hand. Get your Ass off.

Looking up with a smirk on his face. Rob said. Hey this was empty when I got here, besides, I got here first.

That so. Tiny said. Bending over grabbing Rob by his uniform and picking him up throwing him up against the wall, which was about 8 feet away. Letting out a yell when he hit the wall. Rob felt like all the air had been knocked out of him, sliding down the wall Rob laid there looking up in a half daze. Looking up at this barn door coming at him, jumping up and with everything he had, he kicked Tiny in the groin.

Tiny laughed a little. Well, my ma hits harder than that. Hitting Rob in the eye, knocking his head into the wall. It hurt like hell and Rob saw stars, shaking his head, getting up, hitting this big man in the mouth, cutting his lip and making him step back.

Ah now that’s a-little more like it. Tiny said, tapping himself on his chest, with his fingers, Tiny reached to grab Rob. Rob turned around, and jumped up grabbing Tiny’s arm, putting his back against Tiny and dropped to one knee. Rob was trying to throw Tiny over his shoulder. Tiny just relaxed, dropping on Rob, knocking the wind out of him.

Pinned to floor with Tiny sitting on his back. Rob yelled at the big man. Get the hell off of me.

The jailer could hear the prisoner’s laughing and cheering in the main cell. Let’s go and find out what’s going on, looking at two other Officer’s in the booking room with him. All three walked back to the cell and saw Rob on the floor.

The jailer asked. What happened here?

What, are you blind? Someone said.

Lying on the floor Rob looked over at the Jailer, and said I fell off the bunk.

Looking at Tiny, the jailer asked Is that right Tiny?

Looking at the Jailer. Yes that’s right, he fell off of his bunk, just trying to help him up. Tiny replied. Looking over at the cell the only one bunk down. Was the lower one.

The police officer said. Yeah right.

Looking over at the cell. The jailer said. You mean to tell me that he fell off that lower bunk and landed over here.

Walking over to the Jailer at the cell door. That’s what happened. Tiny replied.

The jailer was standing there looking at Tiny. Remind me not to let you help me up if I should fall.

Turning, the Jailer said. Let’s go.

CHAPTER TWO

______________________

Morgan had come in early to finish his report. Pulling out his chair and sitting down, he looked up at the clock to see it was 8 AM.

Ruffling through the paper work and finding the one that he needs.

There it is, about time, I don’t see how he can find anything in this mess. Looking up hearing footsteps coming down the hall. He put the report down, and starts to read it.

Entering Detective Smith’s office, the young woman said. I am looking for Detective Steve Smith.

Morgan looked up at the young woman as she stands in front of desk. Getting up he reaches out for the paper work. That she is holding in her hands.

He’ll be in about nine this morning. Can I be of some help?

Maybe you can. She said. I have a report on a shooting from the Coroner’s Office.

She hands it toward Morgan.

Taking the report. Morgan said. I’ll take that, I’ll make sure that Steve gets it. The young woman turns and leaves the office.

Morgan sat down, opening the report, leaning back in his chair looking at the report, and start’s to read it.

Report

The victim had been shot three times at close range with a 41 Magnum. The bullets matched the gun that Rob Hidden had dropped in the courthouse square. It also had his fingerprints on it.

Now I’m going to book him for murder, too. He closed the folder. Getting up, he walked around the desk, and into the booking room.

The jailer looked up at Morgan as he enters. What’s up Morgan?

I need to get Rob Hidden out.

Getting up and picking up the jail keys, walking around to the door. Let’s go.

Stopping in front of the jail doors, looking around for Rob Hidden. Rob bring your sorry Ass over here. Morgan said.

Rob got up and walked over to the cell door. Now what? He asked.

Got more evidence on you. Morgan said. Booking you again, this time it’s going to be on the charge of bank robbery and murder.

Rob stood there looking through the cell door at Morgan, with his head leaning to one side and his hands in his pockets, with a smug look on his face. You have to prove it, don’t you Ass-hole?

Unlocking and opening the cell door. The jailer said. Step out, turn around, place your hands up on the cell door.

Rob stepped out of the cell and turned around, placing his hands up on the cell door, turning his head to look at Morgan. Got to prove it first.

Face the cell, Spread your leg’s the jailer said, as he started patting him down.

Looking down at the floor as he spread’s his legs, shifting his weight.

Don’t really need to. Morgan said. Got a report back from the coroner’s office. The gun that you dropped had your finger prints on it, and it was used to commit a murder.

Turning his head looking at Morgan, Rob yelled. Murder I didn’t commit any Damn murder."

Morgan took hold of Rob’s arm, leading him down the hall into the booking room.

In here. Morgan said. Pulling out a chair. The jailer said. Sit down here Rob.

The booking officer picking up the report, said. Sign here Morgan.

Looking over at Rob after signing the report. You’re going to District Court #185.

Opening up one of the drawers, taking out a set of leg irons and handcuffs. The jailer said. Stand up, turn around and place your right hand behind your head.

Rob stands up he turns around, putting his right hand behind his head. You know I don’t like those hand cuffs.

Don’t break the law, and you won’t be wearing them. Morgan said. The jailer pats down Rob before cuffing him, and leading him out of booking to the front of the jail.

Rob turned looking around, Rob hadn’t said anything to Morgan insofar, but was thinking that he would try to escape if he got the chance.

Let’s go. Morgan took hold of Rob’s right arm, leading him out of the jail, with the jailer.

Crabtree look’s at a photograph that he has of Rob looking at Rob, then at Morgan, as he hurry’s across the street to reach his client. Yeah that’s him. Leading Rob across the street to the Court House where they met up with Rob’s court appointed attorney, a short man with thinning hair, wearing glasses. Crabtree was new at this; he had started working for the District Attorney’s Office just a month before. He ran across the street, he yelled out. Hold on there, I need to speak with my client.

Morgan turns to see who was speaking.

Who are you? Morgan asked. Letting go of Rob’s arm, placing his hand on his revolver. Is this my client, Rob Hidden? Crabtree asked.

Looking at Crabtree, Morgan said, You haven’t talked with him yet?

Standing in the cross walk. Crabtree remarked. No, not yet. My name is Crabtree; I have been assigned this case from the Public Defender’s Office. I just got this case this morning and need to talk with Rob.

Morgan took hold of Rob’s arm, as they walked up to the Court House. Crabtree dropped his brief case in the crosswalk, bending over to pick it up, and running across the street. As Crabtree approached the curb he tripped, dropped his brief case, again spilling the contents out on to the sidewalk.

Rob turned his head, looking at Crabtree as he was running across the street, and then tripping at the crib. Rob started laughing; There was a light breeze. Some of the paper work was starting to blow around the area. Crabtree bent down to pick up the paper work before it started blowing around.

Do you mind? Crabtree asked, looking up at Morgan. Morgan looked at the jailer as he entered the Court House door. Stay right there, Rob, don’t move from this spot.

Rob falls down on the grass from laughing, as he gazed at the papers blowing around the area. Morgan walked over to where Crabtree was picking up his paper work, and started helping him pick it up. Taking out a cigarette the jailer light’s it, looking at Morgan and Crabtree.

Rob stopped laughing seeing his chance, getting up; he started walking around the Court House on Kansas Street. Rob was about halfway around the courthouse.

Morgan looked around. Where’s Rob?

He was just standing here, he said.

You go that way…I go this way. Morgan said.

Rob felt something tapping on his shoulder, jumping said. Shit don’t do that.

Turning only to see Officer Morgan, Going somewhere?

Well I was, but you had to show up, Rob replied.

Placing his hand on Rob’s neck Morgan pushed. Get going.

Upon entering the courthouse, getting into the elevator, Morgan pushed Rob to the rear of the elevator.

Getting out of the elevator Morgan put his hand on Rob’s back pushing him. Over there on the bench.

Rob walked over to the bench sitting down.

Looking at Crabtree, Morgan said, He is all yours, Crab. Looking over towards Morgan as he is sitting down. It’s Crabtree, if you don’t mind. Morgan turned going down the stairs.

Crabtree sat there looking at Rob. You know what you’re in here for, don’t you?

Looking at Crabtree, Rob remarked. Yeah, they don’t have nothing on me that will stick. Looking at Rob, Crabtree said. I think they do. Looking at the Court Report. You’re being charged with illegal possession of a firearm, bank robbery, assault with intent, and murder.

Jumping up, Rob yelled. Murder!, I didn’t kill anyone, You bustard! You’re supposed to get me off, aren’t you?

Sit down. The Jailer started too walked over to Rob, and stood off to one side.

Looking at Rob, Crabtree said, I’m not going to try to get you off of anything yet. I don’t know what evidence they have on you. Bear with me, Rob, this is my first case.

Looking at the floor, then up to Crabtree, Rob said. Shit of all the Attorneys in town I get you,

Crabtree said with a smile on his is face. Call it luck of the draw, If I’m going to defend you, I need to know everything. If you withhold information from me, I will do what I can to see you swing, are you guilty of these charges they filed against you, Rob?

Looking at the floor, Rob said, Yes, somewhat.

Leaning towards Rob with a stern look on his face. What do you mean, somewhat? Either you did or you didn’t. Leaning back. I’m going to plead you not guilty. This way, I can get what evidence they have against you and go from there. Crabtree looked at the stair well, hearing someone coming up the stairs. Then he looked up at the clock. It’s was 10 minutes to 9, Crabtree looked around seeing the bailiff.

Is it time to go in? Crabtree asked looking at the Bailiff.

Bailiff answered looking at Crabtree. Court starts at 9 o’clock sharp. The bailiff looked at Rob. Seeing that Rob still had on the legions and handcuffs, he walked over to Rob, taking Rob by the arm. Let’s go.

The bailiff lead’s Rob into the Courtroom. Rob looks around, seeing Officer Morgan and some other people, not knowing who they were; Rob was lead up to the front of the court room by the Bailiff.

Sit over by your attorney. The bailiff said.

Rob walks over to sit beside his Attorney, sitting down. Every one stands up as the judge enters the courtroom.

All rise. The bailiff said. Judge Ron Scott presiding. District Court #185 is now in session.

Be seated. Judge Ron Scott said. Everyone sits down. District Attorney your first case?

District Attorney Earl Grover, stands up, and faces the judge. "Your Honor, the People vs. Rob Hidden, being charged under section’s 21-3401, 21,4201, and 21-4204, 21-4101, and 21-4105.

Judge Ron Scott looking over at Crabtree asks, How do you plead?

Standing up, Crabtree replies. Your Honor, my client pleads not guilty by reason of 22-3428, and 22-3201, lack of Capacity to the Offense of the crimes charged.

Judge looks at his pad as he writes. So be it. The court will enter a plea of not guilty.

Your Honor, Crabtree continues. "I request bail for my client.

Getting up, the D A Earl Grover slapped his hand on his table, You can’t do this, Judge."

The Judge looks up at District Attorney Earl Grover. Approach the bench.

D A Earl Grover walks up to the bench, Yes, your Honor?

Judge looking down from bench, at the District Attorney and points his finger at him.

The next time you decide to have a fit, I’m going to site you with contempt of court, you’ll spend the next thirty days in the county jail. Do you understand?

Looking up at the Judge then lowering his head, he replies, Yes, Your Honor.

Get back to your assigned table. Judge Ron Scott said.

Yes, you’re Honor.. Going back to his assigned table, turning around. Your Honor, the people request no bail at this time Looking over at Rob, then back at the Judge. We also ask that he be held without bail, the people feel that the defendant would not show up for court as well as he would be a danger to himself as well to the people as a whole. Besides Your Honor I had a long talk with his father, and he stated that, quote.

I will post bail when hell freezes over.

Judge looking at The District Attorney, with a surprised look on his face, leans forwards, tapping his pen on his desk. Did he now?

The District Attorney looking at the Judge with a discussed look on his face, Yes, Your Honor, he did.

Judge says. So noted. Bail at this time is hereby denied, the defendant will be held in the custody of the County Sheriff until his trial date can be set.

Crabtree stand’s up. Your Honor, I request a competency hearing for my client. I do not feel at this time that he is sane enough to stand trial.

Judge, looking over at Crabtree remarks, So be it, the competency hearing will be set for. Looking at his desk calendar. June 15th at 8 o’clock in the morning, Picking up his gavel. This court is adjourned.

The bailiff turn’s facing the courtroom, All rise.

Crabtree turns and faces Rob. I will work on getting some of the charges dropped or enter a plea bargain.

The District Attorney gets up walking over to Rob. Boy, orange becomes you, get used to it, you’ll be in them for a long time.

Rob looks towards the floor with a look of shame, just standing there with a blank look on his face.

CHAPTER THREE

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Upon entering his office. Steve saw some paper work on his desk that was not there when he left. Sitting down, picking up the report, and started reading. The victim was 28 years old and he had been shot three times in the upper left chest. Putting down the cover sheet he read.

Coroner’s Report

The first bullet hit the deceased victim, Dave Summers, at the serrates anterior muscle going into the left lobe of the liver, going from left to right, cutting the hepatic artery.

With the bullet going through the liver and through the external abdominal oblique

muscle, leaving the body and going beneath the elbow, going through the An corers of the arm.

The second bullet hitting the chest between ribs # 5 & 6 going into the lung on an angle

from left to right, cutting the pulmonary vein and hit the spinal cord, and stopping, The face of the bullet was damaged but the rifling could be clearly seen on the round.

The third, fired straight at the victim and hitting the sternum, going through the diaphragm , missing the heart and liver, stopping at the spinal cord at #6 vertebrae.

The bullet was badly deformed. It would be hard to tell which round was the one that had caused death.

Each bullet was tracked as each leaves a path going through the body, each one could

have caused death.

His blood test showed that he was on PCP, a trace of this was found.

The nasal passage was damaged, showing that the victim had been using cocaine.

The body had been found on Sunday night by the landlord as he was attempting to collect the rent.

When The Police arrived they found the victim slumped over in the chair, on his left side, with three big holes in his chest.

When the body was removed from the chair, a shoe box was found under it containing $50,000. Under the chair a 357 Magnum Revolver was found taped to the bottom. It was marked Police Range #2. The weapon was photographed before being removed and place in an evidence bag.

The next report had a picture of someone robbing the bank. Picking up the picture and looking at it, it was fuzzy, he couldn’t tell who the picture was of, or who it might be. The report stated that Rob Hidden had indeed robbed the bank of $300, and that the money had not been recovered as of the time of the report.

Looking up seeing Morgan walking in, Steve said, Here read this.

Sure, what is it? Morgan asked. Reaching for the report, sitting down, opening the report.

It’s the report from the Corners Office. Steve said.

Taking the photograph and looking at it. This photograph is not very clear. Putting it down and picking up the report.

What do you think? Steve asked. Leaning back in his chair and putting his hands behind his head.

Looking at Steve. Morgan said, You know, with this kind of money lying around that it had to be drug money, did you send the dogs into the house and see what they could find.?

Can’t do that, Morgan the house was turned over to the landlord yesterday. By now it has been cleaned.

Your show! Morgan said. Looking disgusted, putting the report down, and picking up the Ballistic report.

Sitting back up in his chair, Steve said. This report states that the bullet’s match the revolver that you picked up in the Court House Square. The Coroner believed that this murder was for personal gain. But of course he believes everything was for personal gain, even relieving one self.

That would be for personal relief, now wouldn’t it? Morgan replied.

Getting up, Steve started to laugh. Soon they were both laughing, leaving the office. As they stepped out into the hallway Steve met the Courthouse Clerk.

This is for you Detective, The court clerk said. Handing the court order to Steve.

What’s this? Steve asked, taking the Court Order.

You can read, can’t you? The court clerk replied, looking at Steve with a surprised look on his face, the Court House Clerk turned walking down the stairs. Yes…I can read. Steve said, taking the paper looking at it. What’s this Court Order on anyway, Steve? Morgan asked.

Got to take Rob Hidden to the State Hospital, tomorrow morning. Steve replied.

Is the Sheriff supposed to do that? Morgan said.

Yes they are, I’ll just drop it off at the Sheriff’s Office on my way home.

They both turned and walked down the stairs going outside.

CHAPTER FOUR

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The alarm went off, turning over, Steve turned it off, throwing the covers off and sitting up. Getting up and putting the covers back he looked at his wife lying in bed. Turning the radio on, he sat down putting on his socks, then his shirt and pants.

Radio…Male’s voice.

It going to be a very nice day today, clear and 85, .you know it would be a nice day for fishing.

Radio…Female’s voice.

Yes it would be, but it’s going to be raining before the days out. Cloudy this afternoon with local showers…the forecast for tomorrow is about the same, starting off with clear skies, 75 degrees, turning to partly cloudy with showers by mid-afternoon, this is Heathers Weather.

Turning the radio off, Steve bent down kissing his wife goodbye and, went down stairs. He started the coffee pot for his wife. Stepping into the living room, sitting down he put his shoes on and picked up his jacket, and put it on, stepping outside getting into his car, and starting the engine, backing out onto the street, driving up to tenth street and turning going towards the Inn for breakfast.

Steve knew that he had to go to booking and make out a transport form on Rob Hidden, to get him into the State Hospital. Sometime today, he had to get hold of Narcotics and get the dogs in the house on Frey Street, thinking that just maybe the landlord hadn’t cleaned the house yet.

After breakfast, Steve went down to the Police Station and made out a transportation form. Walking in, Morgan saw Steve as he was starting up the stairs. Morning, Detective.

Morning, Morgan, I’ll need you this afternoon, as a witness to what we find in the house on Frey Street. I am ordering a couple of dogs to go in and snoop around the place. You might want to bring a Photographer with you. I’ll talk with the Captain and get someone to take your beat.

I’ll go and get Rob ready, I like rousting him. Turning he opened the door and stepped out.

I’ll get the paper work ready and meet you over at the jail.

Who is going to be driving him over? Morgan asked.

One of the Sheriff’s deputy’s.

Officer Morgan went in to the holding cell to get Rob out getting him ready. Rob get your sorry Ass out here.

Getting up Rob walked over to the cell door. Yeah what is it? Standing there with a smirk on his face.

Morgan was standing at the cell door with it open. Step out here…turn around put your hands up on the cell door.

Watch this. Rob said to one of the inmates, walking over to the cell door, putting his hands on the cell door.

With a discussed look on his face. Morgan said. Out here you idiot. The inmates started laughing.

Stepping outside of the cell, Rob said. I’m going to sue you, Ass Hole.

Closing the cell door. Morgan said. Sue me. What the hell for?

Putting his hands up on the cell door, Rob said. For deformation of character…That’s what for. Patting Rob down.

Morgan said. You would, wouldn’t you?

With his hands still up on the cell door and looking back at Morgan, Rob said. yes, I’m going to do just that.

Walking up behind Rob, the jailer said. Put your arm’s down by your side.

Taking Rob by his arm. Let’s go, bonehead.

Rob, walking along with the jailer said. See Morgan, I’m going to sue the jailer as well.

What for, just because you have a bone in your head. The jailer remarked. Rob started

to move his hand up to his head.

Put your arm down and keep it down. The jailer said. Leading Rob into the booking room. Put your hands up on the wall. The jailer said.

Can’t do it? Rob said, keeping his hands to his side.

And why not? Morgan asked. Standing to the side of the jailer.

The jailer here said to keep my arms down…didn’t he? Rob said. Standing facing the wall with his arms to his side.

Picking up a nightstick and hitting Rob in his kidney, with it, the jailer said. Get your dam arms up on the wall, and do it know. Rob started to drop to his knees, and let out a yell.

Holding his nightstick in his hand. The jailer said. Don’t drop to your knees.

Rob was standing up with a look of pain on his face. I’m going to get you for this, you’re going to pay Ass-Hole. Taking the night stick from the jailer, Morgan hit Rob with it on the lower side of his back. Rob, starting to drop to his knees, let out a yell.

With a smile on his face the jailer said. Now stand up, and stay there, until you are told to move, understand?

Standing up against the wall with his hands up on the wall. Yes Sir, I understand. Picking up the legions and handcuffs that were attached to a waist belt, he put it around Rob’s waist; bending down on one knee he fastened the leg-irons to his legs.

Rob stood there looking down at his feet. Those are too tight. He said.

Looking up at Rob. To dam bad, the jailer remarked, as he got up. Put your hands behind you. And he fastened the handcuffs.

Detective Steve came walking in. Here you are, this is the transportation order to take Rob Hidden out of here, at least he’ll be off your hands for a while.

Starting to walk