His attorney was frantically scribbling notes. Officer Lauren. Walsh's voice was ice cold. Would you like to revise your statement about equipment failure? Before Rey could respond, his attorney stood.
My client exercises his right to remain silent on that matter. Noted, Walsh turned to Maya. Miss Kingsley, please take the stand. Maya rose smoothly, feeling hundreds of eyes following her movement. She was sworn in, then settled into the witness chair, adjusting her blazer.
Please tell us in your own words about your first day at Brookwood High, Walsh prompted. Maya's voice carried clearly through the hushed room. I was checking my schedule when Evan Lorn deliberately slammed into me in the hallway, knocking my books everywhere. When I didn't apologize to him, he became angry and started making racial comments. "Did you record this incident?" "Yes, sir." Maya nodded to her mother, who handed a USB drive to the clerk.
I began recording after the initial contact when his behavior became threatening. The video played, showing Evans sneering face as he loomed over Maya, spitting slurs. Students in the gallery whispered recognition of the scene. For the next hour, Maya methodically presented their evidence. Screenshots of anonymous threats scrolled across the screen.
Photos documented her vandalized locker. Security footage showed Evan following her between classes, intimidating other students who tried to speak to her. "And then there was the fire," Maya said, her voice wavering slightly for the first time. "Please elaborate." Walsh leaned forward. "The night before this hearing was originally scheduled, someone poured gasoline in our garage and lit it.