In theory, the Combat Department would not get involved in this matter, but it seemed unavoidable given the number of people implicated.

After ending the call, Jake's wife, Nora Povitch, and daughter, Fiona Mason, returned home, looking weary. Nora carried a large bag filled with bottles, cans, newspapers, and cardboard she had collected. The little girl held a plastic bag, her once tender hands now dirty with noticeable cracks.

Sylvia felt sorry for them. She approached Fiona and said, "Come,