And those habits died hard. Call 911, he told Sierra, his voice steady. Then wait in the car. Sierra dialed but stayed on the porch. She wasn't leaving her father alone.
Emergency services, the dispatcher said. Someone threw a brick through our window. Sierra reported calmly. 3487 Oakidge Drive. While they waited for police, Dante carefully retrieved the brick using a kitchen towel.
He unwrapped the note, his jaw tightening as he read it. You brought this on yourself. Leave. 20 Minutes later, a single patrol car pulled up without lights or sirens. Deputy Roberts stepped out looking bored.
Sierra recognized him from school events. He was one of Sheriff Hadley's closest friends. "Evening," Robert said, barely glancing at the window. "Got a report of vandalism." "Attempted intimidation," Dante corrected, holding up the bagged brick and note. "We'd like to file a formal complaint." Roberts took minimal notes, didn't photograph anything, and made no effort to look for evidence.
Probably just kids playing pranks. Area's been real peaceful before recently. The implied accusation hung in the air. Sierra felt her father's energy shift, not angry, but focused like during their most intense training sessions. Deputy Dante said quietly, I want your badge number and a case number.
Now, Robert straightened, finally meeting Dante's eyes. Something in the former SEAL's stance made him reach for his notepad. I'll file the report, Roberts said stiffly. But with no witnesses or cameras, not much we can do. There are cameras, Sierra spoke up.
Everyone turned to look at her. She pointed to their neighbors house. Mrs. Chen has a doorbell camera. It faces our front yard.
Roberts frowned. I'll make a note of it. We'll also need the name of your evidence technician, Dante added. Look, Robert said, "Sheriff Hadley's department is stretched thin. We can't spare resources for every little vandalism case." "Of course not," Dante replied.
"That's why I'm also calling the FBI Civil Rights Division. Intimidation following racial harassment falls under their jurisdiction." Roberts's face darkened. "That's unnecessary. We can handle local matters locally like you handled the noose at school? Sierra asked quietly.
The deputy turned to leave. I'll submit my report. Clean this up before someone gets hurt. After his patrol car disappeared, Sierra helped her father board up the window. They worked efficiently.