Franklin was sworn in, his crisp uniform and military bearing lending him an air of authority. Hale approached with practiced confidence.
"Mr. Franklin, please explain your role in maintaining the security systems at Bancroft properties."
"I oversee all camera installations, maintenance, and footage review for the entire Bancroft portfolio," Franklin testified. "Every camera, every recording, every backup system runs through my department."
"And were you responsible for discovering the additional footage presented this morning?"
"Yes, ma'am. During a routine system audit, I found that a secondary backup had captured additional angles of the incident."
Simone's pen moved rapidly across her legal pad. Something in Franklin's testimony didn't match the technical specifications she'd reviewed. She pulled out the security system documentation from her grandfather's briefcase, comparing notes as Hale continued her questioning.
"Could you explain to the jury what we're seeing in this new footage?" Hale gestured for the clip to be played again.
Franklin leaned forward. "The timestamp shows 11:47 p.m. on September 15th. The figure entering from the left matches Mr. Johnson's height and build. When the security light activates, you can clearly see his face."
"Objection!" Simone stood. "The witness is speculating about identification."
"Overruled," Judge Kessler snapped. "The jury can evaluate the witness's expertise."
Hale smiled slightly. "Mr. Franklin, in your professional opinion, how reliable is this footage?"
"Completely reliable. Our system uses military-grade encryption and timestamping. It's impossible to alter without leaving traces."
Simone tensed, waiting for her moment. Hale continued, leading Franklin through a detailed technical explanation, establishing his credentials and the footage's authenticity. Finally, she returned to her seat.
"Your witness, Miss Johnson."
Simone approached the podium, forcing herself to move with deliberate calm despite her racing heart. "Mr. Franklin, you testified that you oversee all camera installations for Bancroft properties, correct?"