Chapter 44

“How can I help you, detective?”

“What is your relationship with Arthur Vandenburg?”

Ken Brownling shifted uneasily in his seat.

“I handled the Star Candy club bankruptcy for him.”

“Any other assignments?”

“Yes. Do you want to get into details of every legal matter I handled for Arthur?”

“Not right now. How well do you know him?”

“He was professional and courteous. The assignments have been straightforward legal requests.”

“Are you aware he is under indictment?”

“Yes, and I was completely shocked. I would never dream Arthur is involved in any activities of that nature.”

“Matt Stevens was a professional break and enter thief and safecracker. Isn’t it logical to assume he is the one who robbed your home?”

Brownling was struck speechless. His mouth moved, but no sound came out. Finally, he sputtered a reply. “Why would you say that?”

“We can put the pieces together, Mr. Brownling. You and Stevens both work for Vandenburg. Arthur is aware of the wealth you have accumulated. He works both sides of the street by giving you assignments, and then ordering Stevens to rob you of your newly acquired wealth.”

“That’s a diabolical theory.”

“Think about it. Your private residence was targeted. The thief knows what to grab and escapes without a trace. The police have no leads. It just seems all too neat to be a random robbery by some drug addicted criminal.”

It was all happening too fast for Ken Brownling. To think, he had asked Arthur to help find the robbers. And all that time Vandenburg was the one behind it? My God! What a fool I’ve been!

Detective Jones and the FBI agents watched the blood drain from Ken’s face. They could see the wheels turning in his mind. A good fish was on the hook here and ready to be reeled in.

“What do you want?”

“Your assistance. Please tell us everything you know about Arthur and his organization. Don’t leave anything out. We have plenty of time for all the details.”