Birds of a Feather (9 page)

Arrange for me to see him? Tio doesn't plan on coming to the motel …
“Have you used that motel before?”

“Yes, it's the one we always stay at. It's where Earl was before he took off to another motel last time.”

“Which you can't remember the name of.”

“I think it had the word Sunset in it. Why is it important?”

“We want to make sure you're not bullshitting us on anything. The boys will be checking you out to make sure you're not trying to set us up for a rip or anything. I was told to get details. Any little details that don't jive … ”

“God, no! After last night … man, I wouldn't lie to you about anything. I'm being totally straight with you.”

“Good. Keep it that way.”

“I will.” Slater paused for a moment, unsure what to say.

“What's on your mind?” prodded Jack.

“About El Paso … I guess we can drive down together. It's best to leave on the Sunday when there is lots of border traffic. Less chance of being checked.”

“Fuck that. I'm not some flunky. I'll fly down and meet up with you.”

“Oh … yeah. I guess that would be better.”

Jack took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. It was not good news that the motel was one picked by Tio. It could mean they knew the owner and the presence of anyone there to assist Jack could put the investigation … and Jack, into jeopardy.

Let the games begin …

Monday morning was busy for Connie Crane. Given the short time frame, she classified her operational plan a priority and had it approved regionally before it was forwarded to Ottawa. She also made calls to the FBI and the DEA in El Paso. Neither agency had any concrete leads to identify Tio. There were lots of “uncles.”

The FBI said they would also check to see if any unidentified female bodies found in the area were a match to Lily Rae, as well as trying to locate the motel she had been taken from. Photos of the man who sneered at the apartment security camera were also transmitted to the FBI.

Wilson had news on two fronts. He said it took their mechanics five hours to figure it out, but by adjusting various knobs on the dash of Porter's truck, a hydraulic system raised the rear deck of the pickup truck to reveal a hiding spot that was shallow, but took in an area almost as large as the box of the pickup itself. Plenty of room to hide a lot of money.

The second piece of news from Wilson was that enhancement of the security camera images from Porter's apartment was not successful enough for positive identification of the second man, but it did show he was missing an earlobe.

Connie called Jack with the information and he quickly dubbed the second man
Lobulo,
after the Spanish word for lobe.

Connie sent an addendum to her operation plan, confirming the accuracy of the information Jack had received in regard to the hidden box on the truck, as well as forwarding Lobulo's photo to the FBI.

Before the day was over, Connie heard back from the FBI. They had located a motel on the outskirts of El Paso called The Cactus Sunset
.
The owner said a young couple had checked into a room twelve days ago on a Wednesday night, under the name of J. Roberts from Kelowna, Canada, and paid cash for the room. The owner of the motel said they left behind two suitcases. One full of men's clothes and the other woman's clothes. Neither suitcase had any identification. The motel did record the licence plate number when they checked in.

The FBI had already run the plate. It was registered to Earl Porter. The FBI would continue their search for possible witnesses, although said it was the type of place where couples often used false names.

The FBI also confirmed that Lily Rae did not match any unidentified bodies. Given the short time frame involved and her long, red hair, she would easily stand out. They had also checked with local hospitals in the event she had been admitted in an unconscious state, but were told she hadn't.

The FBI agent did note the Cactus Sunset Motel was located on the edge of a desert. Disposal of a body would be relatively easy and the wind would quickly cover any tire tracks.

At the RCMP headquarters in Ottawa, the prioritized operational plan was accepted with little fanfare. Requests for Canadian investigators to travel to the United States were a matter of routine and the U.S. was always quick to give permission. Given the short time frame when travel would be necessary, a reply from the U.S. was expected either that afternoon or Tuesday morning.

This time was different. Approval did not come through regular channels, but a response came late Tuesday afternoon with a highly unusual request for a meeting between the U.S. ambassador in Ottawa and either the RCMP commissioner or a high-ranking officer if the commissioner was not available. A meeting was subsequently scheduled for eleven o'clock Wednesday morning when the commissioner would be available.

RCMP bureaucrats in Ottawa pondered over the situation.
What was different about this investigation that would call for a face-to-face meeting with the ambassador?

In advance of the meeting, a team of bureaucratic RCMP officers did an analysis of the operational report submitted by Connie Crane. A name caught their eye. Jack Taggart had submitted a lot of reports over the years. Rumours and suspicions had percolated for ages about his methods and the deadly consequences of some of his investigations. Past investigative reports involving Taggart were scrutinized again.

Some of these reports had hand-written notations added by senior officers. Suspicions had been strongly aroused as to how he could so accurately predict in advance the organizational changes taking place in some organized crime families. His predictions about the future murders of some of the organized crime figures and who would replace them had also proven to be surprising accurate.

It was noted that Taggart had a knack for developing confidential informants who gave him inside information, but, that aside, if was generally felt there were far too many coincidences and Taggart's predictions were too accurate to accept that there was not an underlying complicity of criminal involvement on his part.

One chief superintendent questioned why so many criminal groups Taggart investigated seemed to self-destruct in a spree of murder and mayhem shortly after his investigations began, usually with the criminals apparently killing each other. The chief superintendent had even underlined the word
apparently
with a comment he had made to the Pacific regional commander, Assistant Commissioner Isaac, while discussing his concerns.

Hand-written notes that followed on the report noted that Isaac also had concerns about Taggart and agreed it appeared there were far too many coincidences to rationally believe the mayhem that befell the criminal organizations could all be coincidental to Taggart's seemingly innocent involvement.

That being said, Isaac did state there had never been any concrete evidence to prove that Taggart was a rogue officer. Isaac noted Taggart had been the subject of several Internal Affairs and Anti-Corruption investigations without any evidence of wrongdoing ever being uncovered.

It did not take the bureaucrats in Ottawa long to form an opinion.

Yes, the meeting with the U.S. ambassador must somehow involve Taggart.
Did the U.S. somehow possess information about him to support the rumours? Perhaps even have evidence to lay a criminal charge?
There was consensus that the Americans must have substantially solid evidence if they were going to accuse an officer in a foreign government of misconduct.

The scheduled meeting with the U.S. ambassador was immediately classified as on a need-to-know basis … and it was decided nobody outside of a handful of bureaucrats in Ottawa needed to know.

Early Wednesday morning, when a routine telephone call from the officer in charge of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team in British Columbia was received, wanting to confirm the approval of the operation plan, he was brushed off with an explanation the delay was because the U.S. counterpart who usually handled such requests was on holidays and someone new was temporarily filling in. The I-HIT officer was told the operational plan would likely be approved later that afternoon.

The meeting with the U.S. ambassador was held and the bureaucrats felt smug that they went armed with enough circumstantial evidence against Taggart to alleviate any embarrassment or inclination that they were not completely on top of the situation.

They were soon disappointed. It had nothing to do with Jack Taggart. The U.S. had their own special investigation going in El Paso involving a rogue agent of their own who was the primary suspect in a recent murder of a Mexican drug cartel member.

The ambassador said it was believed that the Canadian investigators would come in contact with the rogue officer in El Paso because he was apparently the most knowledgeable about the Mexican cartels in that area and also had a high-level confidential informant who supplied him with valuable information about the cartels.

He went on to say that their criminal profilers, armed with a psychological profile of their rogue agent, said the agent would be under a great deal of stress, which was evidenced by the sudden appearance of excessive drinking. It was predicted he would soon make an admission of guilt to someone, possibly as a psychological need for self-vindication.

The ambassador said he felt they were obliged to share the nature of the investigation with the Canadians so as not to ruffle any feathers and to alleviate any misunderstandings should the Canadian investigators accidentally be overheard in an ongoing wiretap investigation concerning their rogue agent. The possibility also existed that the Canadian investigators could become involved in future criminal proceedings to give evidence should the rogue agent make some comment or disclose something to help convict him.

The disappointment that the RCMP bureaucrats momentarily felt turned to elation. They explained that they, too, had a rogue officer who was involved in the intended investigation in El Paso. They suggested that with a little manipulation, they could not only assist the U.S. in their investigation, but perhaps kill two birds with one stone.

A flurry of phone calls ensued. The result was the U.S. special investigators and the district attorney assigned to the case were more than happy with the idea. The timing and the similar personality traits of the two men fit perfectly with what the criminal profilers said was needed for an ultimate admission of guilt. It was further predicted that an admission by one would generate an admission of wrongdoing by the other.

This joint U.S.–Canada investigation was given the code name of
Birds of a Feather
.

It was six-thirty Thursday morning and Jack was lying on his back, awake, when Natasha came out of the bathroom and slipped back under the sheets and cuddled up to him.

“You're a very dangerous man, Mr. Jack Taggart,” she said, mischievously. “Do you know that?”

“A few people have suggested that,” he replied suspiciously, as a half smile appeared at the corner of his mouth.

“Yup, armed and dangerous, I would say,” she continued, as her hand gave a playful tug on his penis. “I think I should call you
Dead Eye Dick.
”

“What are you talking about? You're not …?”

“Yes, indications are I am,” she replied, giving a smile.

“It's only been a couple of weeks since we said we would try,” said Jack, feeling dumbfounded. “How do you know already? I mean, is this for real or only hopeful thinking?”

“I just did a test.”

“Did it come back blue, meaning it's going to be another boy?” joked Jack, while his brain still tried to process the moment.

Natasha smiled and said, “I think it's a good thing you never decided to enter the medical profession. I only know I'm pregnant. I figure we should be due around the middle of next April.”

Jack felt at a momentary loss for words, so he hugged her and kissed her long and passionately on the lips and then on her neck, while holding her as close to him as he could. He felt her tears on his cheek.
Or are they mine?

As Jack drove to work he glanced in the rear-view mirror. He saw he had a goofy grin on his face. It only made him smile more. As he got closer to his office, he wondered if Mikey would be getting a baby brother or a baby sister.

The thought of having a daughter made him think about Lily Rae and the joy he had been feeling disappeared. As a parent, he appreciated even more how much her mother must be hurting. He decided he would phone her when he got to the office. He would not risk endangering the secrecy of the investigation by telling her about El Paso, but he would make her a solemn promise to reassure her he would do everything he possibly could to find her daughter.

As he stopped for a traffic light, his mind went back to the hundreds of murdered and missing women out of Juarez … and the thousands of loved ones who still must be grieving their loss.
How do they deal with the pain? Many of the bodies were never found. Some would never have closure …

As he sat waiting for the light to change, sadness was replaced by rage and his knuckles turned white as he gripped the steering wheel.
If someone ever came after my family …

Jack knew then he would do everything he could to find Lily Rae.

Including going into Mexico if need be …

Assistant Commissioner Isaac received a call from Assi-stant Commissioner Franklin in Ottawa and Birds of a Feather was explained. He was told to ensure Corporal Taggart was sent alone to El Paso for a few days to work with Special Agent John Adams.

“Hopefully that will give the two of them a chance to bond without distractions from other investigators,” Franklin said.

The muscles rippled across Isaac's clenched jaw.
Using Taggart like this is wrong. The fact that the commissioner didn't ever bother to talk to me about it is wrong …
“You likely won't have to worry about Taggart bonding,” sighed Isaac. “He's like a chameleon when it comes to fitting in and making friends. From the winos to the academia. People generally like him and go out of their way to accommodate him.”

“You're probably right, there. The way he got Slater to trust him and open up so quickly was amazing.”

“That's not an example I would use,” replied Isaac.

“Oh, that's right. Corporal Crane made a notation Slater may have felt a little intimidated. But still, you agree this plan should work?”

“No, I didn't say that. Taggart is pretty sharp. Others might trust him, but he isn't one to put his trust in someone else or seek their approval.”

“The psychological profile that the Americans have put together indicates there is a strong chance for success. These two have very similar personalities. The plan is fairly simple. All the psychologist says needs to be done is to isolate the two of them so they think they are on their own, while putting a little pressure on them to give them the feeling it is them against the world. It will help them bond.”

“The Stockholm Syndrome,” Isaac remarked.

“Basically. Our hostage negotiators do it all the time.”

“And what pressure do they have in mind?” said Isaac bitterly. “I don't want anyone losing focus as to the primary reason why he would be going to El Paso.”

“No, no. Of course not. They wouldn't do anything to really jeopardize the case they are working on. It would simply be bureaucracy, which often happens, anyway.”

“Such as?”

“Taggart's history, as well as John Adams's, makes it abundantly clear they are both extremely dedicated to getting the job done.”

“And is this the reason you came up with Corporal Taggart's name for this scheme? That he is extremely dedicated?” asked Isaac.

“Fanatical is more like it. Adams is apparently the same way. Look back on the investigations Taggart was involved in. Case after case where —”

“I am well aware of the cases he has worked on. In fact, I have made it my personal business to keep a close eye on him,” said Isaac. “Quite frankly, I feel irked that I was left out of the decision-making concerning this project. He is, after all, under my command.”

“Which is why I am calling you.”

“Right,” said Isaac, somewhat sarcastically, “after the big guy has already made the decision. So let's get back to the intended pressure that is to be put on these two men. What exactly is intended?”

“Simply holding back or delaying resources once in a while should do the trick. Bureaucratic-type stuff that would grate against their personalities. Neither of these two men have a reputation for following policy.”

“Corporal Taggart is going to be working within a stone's throw of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. I don't think I need tell you how extremely dangerous that place is. It is also the home base of this Tio character. If you are cutting back or delaying resources, it better not be at the risk of anyone's life. Whether it is Taggart's, Adams's, or anyone else's.”

“Of course not, but Texas is the only place Taggart is authorized to be. Mexico is strictly off-limits. If Taggart follows policy, then he should be safe enough.”

“Safe enough? Every man, woman, cat, and dog owns a gun in Texas.” Isaac snorted derisively. “We are already asking this man to risk his life in an undercover situation by sending him there. Think about it. He will be dealing with a Mexican cartel that has already sent a hit team to Canada to commit a murder. They'd kill him without batting an eyelash if they thought something was wrong. Safe enough my ass. Would you do it?”

“No, but like I said, he's a fanatic. We are well aware his assignment to El Paso is dangerous.”

“Which should be stress enough without intentionally adding to it.”

“I'm sure our American friends will be prudent. As far as his personal safety goes, he will be given whatever protection is possible in El Paso. If he is stupid enough to go into Mexico, he will be on his own. We can hardly ask our American counterparts to risk their lives by crossing that border also.”

“Guess I can't argue with that logic.” Isaac sighed.

“So you are in agreement?”

“Well, I really think whether I agree or not is a moot point. I am sure the decision by the man above us has already been made. He is not interested in my opinion … which is why he had you call me instead of him. You calling to ask for my concurrence is only a formality.”

“You're right about that, but aren't you happy with the prospect of finding out if Taggart is dirty?”

“I would be, but let me go on record as saying I am opposed to Birds of a Feather for two reasons. The first being that Taggart is very sharp and I am not optimistic of success and —”

“The psychological experts would disagree with you,” Franklin interrupted. “They think once one starts to talk, it will open up a floodgate of chatter. The U.S. is confident Adams will talk. Taggart might even be called to testify against him and vice versa. It will be a feather in our cap to help the Americans. No pun intended. I bet they'll be very grateful.”

“And I was going to add that considering Taggart's intellect and his inherent ability to survive, all this brown-nosing you're doing to the Americans may backfire on you,” said Isaac.

“Co-operation between countries is not brown-nosing, it's simply good police work. What is your second reason?” Franklin asked.

“I don't feel the basic concept of using a policeman from one country to catch a policeman from another country is a good idea. It won't build a trusting relationship for future investigations once word of it gets out.”

“Listen … are you sure you wish to go on record for being against it? Think about your career. I've heard rumours you could be the next commissioner. Disagreeing with anything the chief says could … well, you know what he's like.”

I must really be a candidate for the spot, otherwise he wouldn't be sucking up to me like this …
Isaac shook his head and replied, “I don't care, I want my opinion noted. And as far as being offered the top spot, I would refuse.”

“You would?” replied Franklin incredulously.

“Being a political lackey for whatever government is in charge doesn't appeal to me. Neither does hanging out with him in Ottawa and sucking up to him every chance I get, although I know you would disagree because you think brown-nosing is good police work.”

A moment of cold silence was followed with, “Fine,” came the crisp reply. “Your concerns will be duly noted. Now talk to Taggart's superior and clear the way for Birds of a Feather to proceed.”

“I'm not done yet. You should know that if Taggart's life is put in jeopardy down there as a result of your Birds of a Feather, I won't remain quiet about it. International diplomacy be damned. Tell that to the commissioner!”

Staff Sergeant Rose Wood received a call from Isaac who said, “I'm letting you know Ottawa approved the operational plan submitted by I-HIT over the El Paso investigation, but with a few minor changes.”

“Yes, sir … and those changes would be?” asked Rose as she reached for her pen.

“Corporal Taggart has been approved as he will definitely be required due to his undercover role. He is to go to El Paso on his own for the first few days. With budget restrictions, Ottawa doesn't see any need for the other members to attend until there is something more concrete to investigate.”

“I understand, sir,” replied Rose, “but the investigation is barely getting underway. I'm sure within the next few days we'll identify Slater's contacts in Canada and then discover who they are contacting in the States. The complexity of the investigation, what with a murder, a missing Canadian girl, cocaine importation … it will require a considerable amount of man hours and coordination.”

“In regard to the manpower needed, we got lucky. The Americans currently have a secret task force of investigators in El Paso composed of FBI, DEA, Customs, and ATF, who are all working on the Mexican drug cartels. They have offered their services, including a Special Agent John Adams who will work directly with Corporal Taggart.”

“Excellent.”

“I am assured Corporal Taggart will be well-protected in the U.S., but under no circumstances is he to enter Mexico. Recent kidnappings, murder, and corruption have made it strictly off-limits. Is that clear?”

“Yes, sir.”

“As Corporal Taggart is to be meeting the target next Wednesday, I would think it prudent he arrive in El Paso by Monday. It will give him a chance to meet who he will be working with and also do any preliminary investigative work needed to move this case ahead.”

“Yes, sir.”

“He is going into extremely dangerous territory. Parts of El Paso are basically like the suburbs of Juarez. The Americans will be in charge of his safety down there, but I want you to inform him that if something doesn't feel right, he should back out. Lily Rae may have been murdered down there, but I don't want Taggart becoming the next victim. Is that clear?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Wish him good luck for me. I think he will need it.”