Chapter 66
Detective Jones and his FBI colleagues were frustrated.
“We’re not getting much from these interviews.”
“I know. The state might be able to file fair employment grievances, but that’s not really what we are after.”
“Doesn’t it seem strange that no one wants to talk about the organization?”
“They're scared. People understand what might happen to them.”
“It’s more than that. I get the idea that the witnesses have been prepped.”
“You think someone is tipping them off?”
“Makes sense for the organization to have officials on the payroll to give them a heads up.”
“Are we talking local, state, or federal?”
“If I were Simon, I’d take anyone I could get.”
“We need to keep the information circle small to reduce risk. Continue cooperating with local and state agencies but keep the updates on a need-to-know basis.”
***
With approval from his handlers, Simon held his next meeting.
“Thank you for the information. The colleagues were most pleased.”
Trenchard was happy at the change in Simon’s demeanor. Maybe he would get a bonus.
“Do you have another assignment for me?”
“Yes. Here is the information.”
Sam opened the folder and looked at the name.
“This is one of the names from the drive.”
“Yes. In a curious way, you have manufactured your own assignment,” said Simon with a smile.
“Are we going to hit all of them?”
“Let’s take it step by step. Start with this target, and I will keep you informed.”
“Got it.”
Trenchard was disappointed there was no bonus but happy to receive more work. With luck, these targets would be wealthy types with large scores to be made.
***
Bill Greenfinder asked for and received his own meeting with Simon.
“We have a problem.”
“Issues with integration and consolidation?”
“You read my mind. The Black Lives Matter protests have really stirred up the employees.”
“There is no real impact on the business that we can see.”
“You should look at it from my end. Productivity is way down. The next run of quarterly reports will show it.”
“How do you plan to address it?”
“My recommendations will be included in the report packet. I’m just an advisor now, remember?”
Greenfinder’s response was tinged with a hint of bitterness.
“Challenges are to be expected with any reorganization. Your replacement will deal with them swiftly, I'm sure.”
“By laying off more employees?”
“Survival of the fittest. Those whose performance is not up to expectations will be free to find work elsewhere.”
“You’re playing with fire, man. BLM won’t stand for it, and neither will the local and state authorities.”
“William, you are not the first one to forecast these types of difficulties. The organization is aware of the risks and will deal with them as they arrive.”
“Meaning you have officials on your payroll to soften and deflect any investigations.”
“You’re a perceptive employee. Be advised that your curiosity could lead you in dangerous directions. Pay attention to your current assignment and leave the strategy to us.”
The message was loud and clear. Shut up and get in line or else.