Page 61 of Riptide
"Fruit of the poisonous tree," Reagan said. "FBI can't use it in court."
"Unless we give them reason to look at her independently," Tom said. "Anonymous tip to Cyber Crimes Division. Evidence of systematic unauthorized database access. Technical proof they can verify."
"Would they investigate?" Cara asked.
"They'd have to. This is exactly what they look for." Tom pulled up the FBI's cybercrime tip portal. "The evidence is solid. Even without us testifying, they could build a case."
"But that takes time," Wade said. "Investigations, warrants, building a case. Meanwhile Blaire's still hunting. Still demanding Cara's money in eight days."
"So we hit her from multiple angles," Reagan said. "FBI investigation for the long game, for sure. But we also need something immediate to get her to act."
"Like what?" Piper asked.
Tom pulled up a draft email on his screen. "Like this."
They gathered around to read.
FROM:Special Agent Rita Martinez, FBI Cyber Crimes Division
RE:Inquiry Regarding Investigation Methods
Ms. Mitchell,
As part of an ongoing investigation into unauthorized access to protected databases, your name has been referencedin connection with several cases currently under federal review.
We are requesting that you preserve all records related to the following investigations:
*- Marcus Webb (Portland, OR) - 2023
Tanner White (Seattle, WA) - 2023
Shawn Forsythe (Tacoma, WA) - 2024
Jeffrey Latimer (Portland, OR) - 2024*
Additionally, we request information regarding your data acquisition and analysis methods. Federal law requires licensed investigators to operate within specific legal parameters. We need to verify compliance.
Please contact our office within 72 hours to schedule an interview.
Failure to preserve records or comply with this inquiry may result in obstruction of justice charges.
Special Agent Rita Martinez
FBI Cyber Crimes Division
