"It had federal historical preservation plates registered in the county database," Marcus replied with chilling calm. "And the appraisal filed with my insurance last week valued it as a certified matching-numbers collector’s asset at $185,000."
Chapter IV: The Arrival of the Authorities
Before Evelyn could open her rulebook, two state trooper vehicles and a flatbed from the district attorney's forensic unit pulled up behind the tow truck, their red and blue lights reflecting off the pink fabric of her suit.
Stepping out was Detective Alvarez, accompanied by two armed officers.
"Mrs. Evelyn Cross?" Alvarez asked, walking directly toward her with an official warrant in hand.
Evelyn clutched her binder like a shield: "Officer, this is a civil HOA compliance enforcement! I am the president of this association—"
"You are under arrest for aggravated felony grand theft of an antique motor vehicle, criminal destruction of historic property, and operating an unlicensed commercial salvage without a municipal court order," Detective Alvarez announced firmly.
The tow truck driver immediately climbed out of his cab, waving his hands in panic: "She forged the signature on the city scrap permit, officer! She told us she was the registered property owner!"