Meeting My Mistress Chapter 35

Written by Brianna Demonet

We've discussed it with our client. His answer is No. We do have a counteroffer.

I'm Listening, says Marla. 90% and a press conference with a public apology, and your client agrees to anger management classes, and no criminal assault charges will be filed or pressed.

Marla steps back and whispers to her client. 60٪ said, Marla.

85٪ said Carol.

You're betting I can't get the evidence thrown out.

I know you can't not this time! Becky said with great confidence.

Marla and Miss Preston whisper. 70٪ said Marla.

80% said Mr.Preston and I get to keep the beach house and all my properties as well.

No assault charges ask Mrs Preston.

None Said, Becky. Done said, Marla.

Sign here! Said Becky.

Already? Said Marla.

I know you too well Marla. Marla, Becky, Carol, and Mr and Mrs Preston sign a court bailiff signs as witnesses.

I guess we're done here said Marla.

Not quite said, Becky.

Oh!! Said Marla?

There will be no assault charges filed but there is the matter of the illegal wiretaps and vehicular assault on myself and my staff, said Becky.

You can't prove that said, Marla.

We're about to find out. You might want to stick around, Marla; I have a feeling Your Client and Mr Stapleton are going to need you! Becky and Carol smile devilishly.

Shall we, said Becky?

Lets! Said, Carol!

After you Marla! Becky said smugly.

We walk into the courtroom, sitting behind the prosecutor's table. Lt Mills and Detective Alan Hadley are in the far back. Jason and Mrs Preston sit down at the defense table.

All rise, said the bailiff. The honorable Judge James Harris presiding.

Carol mouths to Becky. Hang'em, Harris?

How'd you swing that Becky?

I didn't, honest!

Be seated, barking at the bailiff.

Marla Meyers for the defense of your Honor! Mitchell Seaton for the people your honor.

I understand we're to hear arguments on evidence for illegal wiretaps and wire fraud. And attempted vehicular assault?

Yes, Your Honor said both attorneys.

Proceed, Mr Seaton. Thank you, your honor.

We Have collected weeks of internet traffic, illegally mounted cameras and listening devices, and internet monitoring equipment from the offices where Mr Stapleton used to work. We also have similar devices collected at the home of Ms Stapleton's home. We also dash cam and body camera footage of the surveillance teams following the attorneys.

Has the defense been presented with a chance to review the evidence?

We have reviewed some of your honor. We are not close to finishing our review, yet we also request an independent lab to review the data for its validity your honor.

Has forensics finished the examination of the data?

They have your honor.

So quickly?

Yes, their findings are authentic and unaltered.

Call your first witness, Mr Seaton, Judge Harris said.

The people call police officer Martin Hall to the stand. Officer Hall, state your name and occupation. Martin states his name and occupation.

After a brief rundown of his credentials, the prosecutor starts in.

Mr Hall, what evidence did you collect? He lists all the equipment, data, and how it was obtained. What's your determination of the evidence collected and the data history?

The equipment Installed was within the last six weeks. Martin continues on the procedures used to determine all their conclusions.

Can you tell us anything about who would own such equipment? Martin answers; only state and federal agencies, this isn't retail-grade technology that was installed. This is very high-end equipment. Thank you, Mr Hall.

Your witness!

Marla starts; Mr Hall, is It possible this evidence could have been tampered with?

No.

How can you tell?

Because of the consistent ping signal sent and the IP addresses are consistent.

The equipment you said is government-issued, how do you know this?

Because I have set this equipment for Law enforcement before under warrants; also, the static IP Addresses used are owned by both California and the federal government.

Is It possible this equipment was stolen?

If it was it would have been reported. The equipment in front of you is still listed in inventory at the state police headquarters in Sacramento.

So It was stolen!

No, it was scanned out for maintenance a little over 6 weeks ago. It was never scanned back in and the company that maintains it never received it.

Interesting, what did you do when you discovered this?

I contacted Lt Mills of internal affairs of the state police and reported my findings.

Your witness, Ms Meyer, said Judge Harris.

No questions your honor! Marla said.

Thank you, Mr Hall. You may step down says the judge.

The prosecution calls Lt Mills after being sworn in and their name and credentials verified.

Lt Mills, tell us about this report and its findings.

After the forensic exam of the equipment, I had the FBI run another examination of the evidence. Their exam confirms Mr Hall's findings.

You have the report?

Yes, two copies. Your honor

I'd like this entered in evidence, Mr Seaton said.

Are you able to trace who accessed the evidence?

Yes, the person is still under investigation.

Marla Starts, Lt. Mills, why did you involve the FBI?

The equipment was issued to the state by the Department of Justice; any unauthorized use is required to be reported to the FBI.

Did you tell them what to look for? No, only that it was found in use without a warrant and without being checked out through proper channels.

So your actions were by the book?

Yes!

Were there any irregularities in the chain of curiosity?

No.

Was the equipment fingerprinted?

Yes.

What were the results?

The fingerprints and DNA belong to Jason Stapleton.

I will now hear witness testimony about the discovered illegal taps. Judge Harris said.

The prosecution calls Brianna Stapleton; Brianna's sworn-in credentials are verified.

Ms Stapleton, when did you discover the equipment?

Almost 3 weeks ago.

What did you do when you found it?

I reported my findings to Ms Stapleton.

What did she say?

She asked me If I was certain, and I confirmed it.

What did she ask you to do?

To Set up monitoring devices to find out what they were listening to and trace where the data was going.

Did you at any time tamper or touch the equipment?

No only monitor it.

What did you do next?

I asked Ms Stapleton to call in Terry Elgin to further examine the equipment.

Did Terry touch anything?

No! Terri brought in extra equipment to monitor it closely and run traces back to their sources.

How do you know this? Because I helped Terry install the additional equipment.

We photographed everything we did.

Do you have any other documentation of your actions, data, check-ins, recordings, times of traces, or pings? Mr Seaton asked.

Yes, on this flash drive. I also have raw handwritten notes between myself and Terry in the server room.

Mr Seaton asks, Why handwritten note communications.

Because the server room was bugged! Brianna answered.

Really! How many bugs?

In addition to the phones, there were bugs in the conference rooms, Ms. Stapleton's office, the server room, and the elevator.

Anything else?

Yes, sir, there were cameras as well, All wired to the devices installed to monitor us.

Did you or Terry touch any of these devices?

No, we pointed them out to the police. Thank you, Ms Stapleton.

Marla starts. Ms Stapleton, are you certified in computer forensics?

No Ma'am.

Are you trained in computer Forensics?

No Ma'am.

So it's safe to say you can't be sure what these devices do or if Ms Stapleton asked to have them installed?

She didn't purchase or ask to have them installed.

How can you be so sure?

Because all purchases and contracted work are itemized and documented. The contractor used for her network sends only one of two technicians when service calls are made and regular maintenance is scheduled on Tuesday evenings with an escort.

The contractor hasn't been at the firm in the last 3 months.

Why so long?

The company went out of business. I stepped in to help 3 weeks ago when Ms Stapleton mentioned a problem they were having. Being certified in several skills of technology I was happy to help.

This is when you found this?

Yes.

Isn't it possible the equipment was there the last time the contractor came in?

No, the last maintenance visit took less than an hour, and it would take hours to set up this equipment.

How can you be so sure?

The rouge access point and the additional network switch alone would take at least 3 hours to install. It would take another 2 hours to set up the mirror software on the router they installed.
They would have to reboot the servers and the network several times to get it up and running. No way could it be done without disrupting service.

Wouldn't someone need a password to access the system?

Yes, they would. Jason Stapleton had access.

How do you know that?

Because I was given full network admin rights. I printed the list. Jason, the two contractors,, and Ms Stapleton had access.

How do you know it wasn't Ms Stapleton?

There was no record of Ms Stapleton's administration login anywhere in the system. Ms Stapleton is ethical and honest. She'd never compromise her law firm.

Are you certain she didn't have this done?

Yes. Every expense is logged, documented, justified, and audited. This was an expensive job.

One more thing, Ms. Stapleton, how are you related to Rebecca Stapleton?

Objection! Barks Mr. Seaton. The relationship isn't relevant to the case! Sustained.

The state calls Terry Elgin. I walk into the courtroom in my feminine best coat dress, scared out of my mind. A young man in feminine at court. This ought to be good.

Ms Elgin state your name and occupation. After stating my name and credentials.

Ms Elgin, you were called in for technical support for the network at Stapleton and Stapleton law firm?

I was.

Who called you?

My mother Carol Elgin.

What were you told about the situation?

That Brianna had discovered some strange equipment in the server room and needed some help.

Why you?

Because I hold double master's degrees in Computer Network and Security engineering.

Does this mean you're qualified in computer forensics?

Yes, actually, it does.

How did you determine the equipment was not part of the regular network?

The dust!

Dust?

Please explain Ms Elgin.

Server rooms are dirty and dusty and very noisy. No one works there unless they have to. Normally we remote in from an outside terminal.

When I entered the server room the pictures clearly showed the difference in the dust collected on the equipment. The devices placed in the server for monitoring our system are clearly much less dusty than the equipment around them.

This switch, pointing at the photo, is not retail. If you notice the brand and model numbers. If you take time to google it you'll see you have a federal permit to order one.

Only state and federal-level law enforcement are authorized to purchase these devices. Even if I could get my hands on one it would be illegal to own it.

So you're saying then there's no way The Stapleton Law firm owns these devices?

Correct they do not own them. I would never touch them unless I was under a federal contract.

Have you done work for the federal government?

Yes, I have.

Where?

Federal courthouses in LA, Here in town, Las Vegas, and the Sacramento capital building and their state houses and California state police.

I hold NSA-level security clearance for the work I do.

Impressive! For someone so young!

Ms Meyer, your witness!

No questions your honor!

Thank you, Ms. Elgin; you may step down.

The judge says, is there any more evidence to present?

Your Honor the state would like to call Detective Alan Hadley to the stand. Detective, please state your name. After another credential rundown. Mr. Seaton starts in.

Detective, what evidence do you have for us today?

Fingerprints, DNA, and hair were found in the server room. A confirmed Match to Jason Stapleton.

His fingerprints were only on the equipment in question, and there was his blood on one of its terminals. Fingerprints outside of the server room match prints of two additional suspects currently being held in county jail.

Are you certain, detective?

Yes, we ran the test three times. The two in county jail are employees of a security firm contracted by the defense's law firm.

Objection, barked Ms Meyer!

Ms. Meyers, Sit down. I won't ask again said, Judge Harris.

Marla sits fuming.

Are you certain of this?

They both carried IDs from the company and cars they were pulled over by police were registered to the security company. The company confirmed an active contract with the Ms Meyer's law firm.

Your witness, Ms Meyer.

Marla starts. Detective Hadley, you were the arresting officer for Jason Stapleton?

Yes, Ma'am!

Was he merchandized?

Yes! Twice by the card.

Did Mr Stapleton make a statement?

No.

Did Mr Stapleton answer any questions?

No, he didn't.

How did your department apprehend the two unnamed suspects?

Patrol officers witnessed two vehicles in pursuit of Ms Stapleton trying to get to my police substation.

So you have proof of this so-called pursuit?

Yes, Ms. Stapleton provided dash cam footage as well as the Private investigator Richard Thompson.

Marla sits in stunned silence.

Ms Meyer, Ms Meyer! The judge shouts.

Yes, your honor?

Any more questions for the witness?

Nothing further at this time, Your Honor.

You may step down Detective.

Thank you, your honor.

The court will recess for two hours while I look over the evidence. The judge smacks his gavel and we break.

Rick says anyone hungry?

We all nod.

How does Italian sound? I know a great place around the corner.

We walk around the corner. The lunch crowd has mostly left now we get seated right away.

Carol says Marla didn't look very happy!

That's because she doesn't have a leg to stand on, said Becky.

Don't underestimate her. Said Carol

She's smart! If there's dirt, a lie, or an inconsistency, she'll find it and exploit it. Said Carol.

Marla is an Alpha. If she wasn't such a bitch we'd be friends, said Becky

I can see that. Said Carol

Bree, Terri you girls were great up there.

I was Terrified said Bree.

Me too, said Terri.

Are you sure I'm okay dressed this way? Asked Terry.

Carol says, Terri did you lie about your name?

No.

Did you tell the truth?

Yes.

Then I don't see an issue your first name is Terry, not Terrance. Said Carol

Becky says I never knew you had security clearance like that?

It's important for my work. There are very few of us in private practice that are allowed to act as private contractors.

We call ourselves "Ringers". We are brought in as a second set of eyes for double checks on systems.

Bree says I'm impressed Terry, and proud of you.

Thanks, Bree!

We squeeze our hands under the table.

Let's eat said Carol.

The little Italian man comes over. With an Italian accent, he asks for drink orders. We ask for pitchers of Iced tea and water. We place drink orders.

He's a cute funny man. Both flirtatious and sweet. He is flirting with Terri pretty well. We are all laughing. Terry was laughing and blushing, even giving back in the flirting department. We had a great time.

Becky starts, everyone Carol and I like to thank everyone again. This is the biggest divorce and one of the biggest criminal cases of our careers.

The efforts and sacrifices you've all endured have not gone unnoticed. Keith we'd like to officially offer you a position in our firm. Working alongside Rick.

I know I've mentioned before, but you never really confirmed a Yes or No.

Keith stands. My friends allow me to confirm my intentions; yes, I would love to work for you and put down some roots! Keith walked around the table. Looking at Becky and Carol may I kiss your cheeks to seal the deal?

Of course, they say. Kevin bends down and kisses their cheeks. He then kisses Bree's and Terri's.

Terri, you look great. How are you doing?

Conflicted but a bit better, Aunt Lisa is very helpful.

Yes, she is Terri, I know first hand. She's the best for a reason. I thank god every day for Lisa. She saved my life without a single pill. You can trust her Terri.

I do, Bree, I do.

Becky asks, Rick how are you and Judy doing?

We are great. I'm taking her to a bed and breakfast up in Mill Valley this weekend.

Sounds romantic! That's the idea! Becky, I can't thank you enough for allowing me to ask her out.

We are happy things are working out so well for you two, said Carol.

You both deserve to be happy, said Becky.

Keith, how are things with Alexis?

Terrific! We are both very happy.

Any chance we get to meet your little girl?

Soon, as a matter of fact, next weekend.

Any chance we can spoil her a little?

What's a little mean?

Salon visit, some shopping? You, Alexis, and me. We can have an afternoon pool party at my house.

She would love that. Actually, she's staying until Wednesday. Can you do without me for a few days?

Of course, it's family. If you would like I could set you up at Raging Waters in San Jose Sunday through Wednesday, on me, said Becky.

Wow, thank you, thank you, yes, I accept.

Good, I will see to it. Thank you for indulging us. We can't wait to meet her.

Well, Becky, I don't know about you, but I think this little one needs a new school wardrobe, said Carol.

Don't forget dance outfits, Carol! Becky said.

Ladies, thank you, but all that isn't necessary.

We want too said Carol. Besides spoiling little girls is our speciality.

Carol begins to Tear up. Aunt Bree grabs her hand and squeezes Carol's hand. Bree tears up a bit too.

Everything alright? Asks Keith.

Yeah, there, fine Becky said.

Are you sure, Terri?

Yes. It's been almost a year now.

For what? Asked Keith

Aunt Bree lost her family. She had a wife and four girls. Carol loved Bree's daughters as her own.

I'm sorry for your loss ladies.

It's okay, said Carol.

We are family, and as a family, we take care of each other. Your daughter has new aunts now, Keith. Don't worry we will never come between You and your ex‐wife concerning your daughter.

It's about time we head back said Rick.

Well, let's hear what the judge has to say about this tampered evidence, Says Becky.

With Hang'em Harris it can go either way. If it's airtight and there's a conviction, he won't show much leniency in the sentence, said Becky.

He's a, by the book, the judge, said Carol.

One thing is for sure his decisions are rarely overturned, said Becky.

I wonder how we got him?

You welcome said Rick, smiling.

What did you do, asked Carol?

I have a friend at the clerk's office. She owed me a favor.

I asked for a Judge who hates Marla Meyer.

That explains his attitude toward Marla, said Becky.

Bree and I headed to the witness room. Becky and Carol again sit behind the prosecutor's table. Lt. Mills and Detective Hadley sit in the back. Marla, Sally, and Jason sit at the defense table.

All rise! Barks the bailiff. Everyone stands. Judge Harris Sits, then we sit.

I have been a judge for over 20 years. In all that time, this is one of the most offensive abuses I have ever seen in terms of state-owned resources. Add to it a law firm bugged with no warrants of any kind. The question of evidence tampering is a serious accusation. With everything I have seen and heard today, it shakes my faith in our system to the core.

It's times like these I weigh my decisions very carefully. I have examined the evidence, chain of evidence, and testimony. It's my conclusion that the evidence and the chain of custody are valid and uncompromised. The case will proceed in 4 weeks. Bailiff! Take Mr Stapleton into custody, Ms Preston your bail is continued on the condition of an ankle monitor. Courts adjourned. The gavel bangs.

Becky smiles as Jason is marched out the side door in cuffs. Jason looks back at Becky, with a look of sorrow on his face.

A fitting end to Jason Stapleton said Carol.

I wish I'd listened to you about him a long time ago said Becky.

Well it's over now said Carol.

We'll see! Jason is a weasel. He'll get out of this too, but not unscathed, said Becky.

Becky I need to get home said Carol gosh knows what my house looks like! Mary's event is a week from Saturday night, said Becky. Besides I have a surprise for Bree on Sunday morning after the event. Okay, Becky, you win. I'll fly in next Thursday night.

Terri, you look like you're feeling better said Carol.

I am feeling a bit better.

I am glad to hear it; I worry, honey. It's my right as a mother to worry.

I know, Mom. Let's get back to the office everyone. We've plenty of other cases and plenty of work to be done, said Becky.

The drive back was mundane. I stopped at the Coffee shop and bought coffee for everyone. Even Judy. She missed our lunch out, so I grabbed her, her favorite salad.

I missed driving my car. I am so happy I don't have to drive that rental anymore. Looking in the mirror I see Terri with an "i" staring at me. She seems happier than Terry with a "y."

I think I'm going to give "i" Terri a chance. An honest-to-goodness chance. Maybe Mom and Becky are right. Gosh knows Aunt Brianna has never been happier.

Why is this happening? Why do I feel this way? Someone told me once that in this situation, why is never answered. I stop at a traffic light. Two guys in BMW are checking me out at the light.

One shouted nice car, babe! Your boyfriend lets you drive it?.

I frowned at him and drove off.