Eric noticed. What are you doing? The man lowered it instantly. And, nothing. He walked away without another word.
One witness gone. Then another. Within a minute, nearly half the crowd had disappeared. Only Linda Foster remained inside her locked store, secretly recording everything through a narrow gap in the blinds. She whispered to herself, please, let someone stop this.
Inside FBI headquarters, another analyst suddenly spoke. Sid. Daniel looked over. We've identified every officer on scene. Good.
But there's something else. A satellite map appeared beside the live video. Three additional patrol cars were heading toward Nia's location. Daniel's jaw tightened. They're calling for backup.
Vanessa looked at him. If more officers arrive, she'll be outnumbered nine to one. Daniel remained silent for several seconds. Then he pressed a secure communications button. Malcolm.
A deep voice answered immediately. Go ahead. Prepare tactical team alpha. You want wheels rolling? Not yet.
Apaza. Not yet? Daniel continued watching the screen. No. His eyes never left Nia.
I want every single corrupt officer who answers that backup call identified before we move. Back on the street, Travis checked his watch. His patience had vanished. He pointed directly at Nia. Cuffer.
Ryan smiled. Now we're talking. Kevin looked horrified. On what charge? Travis answered without hesitation.
I'll think of one before the paperwork. Ryan reached for Nia's arm. This time, she didn't step away. She knew exactly what was happening. The investigation had just crossed an invisible line.
What began as intimidation was becoming an unlawful arrest, and every second of it was still being transmitted live to FBI headquarters. In Atlanta, Daniel Carter watched Ryan's hand closing around Nia's wrist. He exhaled slowly. Then he picked up the secure radio one final time. Tactical Team Alpha.
The room became perfectly silent. Start your engines. Ryan Mercer clamped his hand around Nia Brooks's wrist with unnecessary force. You're under investigation. Nia looked directly into his eyes.