She sat down, her heart racing. Her father squeezed her hand under the table.
"Miss Hale, call your first witness," Kessler instructed.
Victoria Hale approached the podium. "The prosecution calls James Morrison, head of security for Bancroft Developments."
A broad-shouldered man in a security uniform took the stand. His testimony was polished, obviously rehearsed. He described the security systems, the regular patrols, and the events of September 15th.
"And you personally observed someone matching Marcus Johnson's description near the warehouse that night?" Hale asked.
"Objection." Simone stood. "The witness's statement contradicts his initial report to police, which noted that visibility was too poor to identify any individuals."
Kessler's eyes narrowed. "Miss Johnson, are you planning to impeach this witness?"
"Yes, Your Honor. I have his signed police statement."
"Then save it for cross-examination. Objection overruled."
Morrison continued his testimony, each word driving another nail into the case against her family. Simone documented every inconsistency, every slight variation from his previous statements.
When Hale finished, Kessler turned to Simone. "Your witness, Miss Johnson."
Simone approached the podium, her notes ready. "Mr. Morrison, you testified that you saw someone matching my father's description at 11:45 p.m., correct?"
"That's right."
"And you're certain of the time?"
"Absolutely. I check my watch regularly during patrols."