Chapter 22 - THE FEDERAL INDICTMENT
By Friday evening, the U.S. Attorney's office formally upgraded Richard Vance's charges to federal grand larceny and racketeering.
The total asset recovery surpassed two billion dollars, rerouting millions into transparent community development funds across America.
Inside the federal holding facility, Richard sat alone on his narrow steel cot in a standard-issue orange jumpsuit.
His polished navy blue suit and open collar shirt were gone, replaced by coarse fabric and the constant hum of fluorescent lights.
His defense attorney sat across the glass partition, looking through a thick folder of hopeless trial motions.
"There's no deal coming, Richard. The federal prosecutor's evidence is airtight, and Mariana Vance's legal team blocked every loophole," the lawyer sighed.
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"How is that possible? She was just a quiet girl who stayed at home!" Richard roared, slamming his fist against the metal table.
"She wasn't quiet, Richard. You were simply too arrogant to ever listen," the lawyer replied bluntly, packing his briefcase.
