And I require every subsequent statement from this woman to be audio-recorded for the legal record, under penalty of perjury.”

Miller scoffed and dropped his pen with a clatter. He leaned back in his chair with the lazy arrogance of a local cop who hates being told his job by a civilian.

“Look, lady. Take a seat, wait your turn, and let us handle a routine domestic dispute. I’m not logging those requests.”

I didn’t argue. I reached into my jacket, pulled out my credential case, and flipped it open on the counter. The gold shield caught the overhead light.

“I’m not making a suggestion, Miller.” My voice dropped an octave as I watched his eyes track the federal seal. “I’m instructing you to preserve forensic evidence and secure that perimeter under federal law enforcement protocols.

Amateur hour ends now.”