We can access what’s on it. We’ll need a computer, Rodriguez replied. But yes, it should be readable. As they prepared to uncover the secrets Max was carrying, Crawford couldn’t help but wonder, “Did Sara know about this device? And if so, what was she hiding that was worth risking her dog’s life to protect?” At 8:25 A.M., forensic technician Michael Torres plugged the device into his laptop. The screen filled with dozens of audio files, all dated between April and September 2017.
Crawford stood behind him, watching nervously as the minutes ticked by. “There are 43 recordings here,” Torres said. “Some are only a few seconds long, others several minutes.” “Play the first one,” Crowford ordered. Torres clicked on a file dated April 15, 2017. The room fell silent as voices filled the air. The first voice was clearly that of David Mitchell, Sara’s supposedly dead husband. “Are you sure this will work, Kan?” David asked, his voice nervous but excited.
A second voice responded, deeper and more confident. “David, I’ve been a prosecutor for 15 years. Trust me. When I’m done, everyone will think you’re dead and that Sara killed you.” Crawford felt his blood run cold. Robert Kane was the lead prosecutor who had sentenced Sara to death. He was supposed to seek justice, not conspire with the victim. “What about the body?” David asked on the recording. “It’s all sorted out,” Kane replied. “We found a homeless man your same height and build.”
Walsh will handle the autopsy and make sure the dental records match. No one will question it. The recording continued for another minute with David and Kane arguing about money transfers and escape plans. When it ended, the room fell silent. “Play another one,” Crawford said, his voice tight with anger. Torres selected a file from May 2017. This time, three voices could be heard: David, Kane, and a woman. “Detective Morrison, are you comfortable planting the evidence?” Kane asked.
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