Sir Peter, probably wisely, treated this as rhetorical and remained silent. So Tom continued. ‘Of course I’m upset and angry. I’m sure you would be as well, if you were in my shoes. What do you expect me to do? Just accept that one of my officers will possibly be sacrificed on the altar of police procedure?’
Tom fell silent as he, once again, gathered his thoughts. When he next spoke it was without any of his earlier anger. ‘I’m sorry, sir, but I’m just not willing to accept this. If anyone has to be suspended then it should be me. If it’s still decided that DS Milner will be suspended, then I will seriously consider tendering my resignation.’
Chapter 56
It was later that evening and, after his meeting with Sir Peter, Tom had driven straight home. As so often happened when he had things on his mind, he arrived home without remembering the actual drive. Under normal circumstances, by now, his earlier anger would have been reduced somewhat. This time, though, if anything, it had actually increased.
Of course, he understood the need for such an inquiry. It was the only way in which any mistakes could be identified and procedures put in place in order to minimise the risk of them ever happening again. He also understood the importance of any such inquiry being carried out in a totally independent manner. What he couldn’t understand, though, was why Milner should be the focus of the investigation.
Despite what Sir Peter had said about it not implying any guilt on Milner’s part, Tom knew the way things like this worked and how it was likely to be perceived by colleagues and associates. The very fact Milner had been suspended would, in the minds of some people, still imply at least a degree of culpability. There would always be a hint of suspicion following him wherever his future career took him. What was also true was that, even if he was eventually fully exonerated, it would still be a matter of record that he had been suspended.
There was also the issue of how Julie, DC Bennett’s wife, would react when she found out Milner had been suspended. It wasn’t difficult to imagine how she might begin to blame Milner for her husband’s death. Tom also knew that, for someone like Milner who set himself high standards, the suspension would be something he would, undoubtedly, struggle to come to terms with.
And there was another thing. Whilst Tom’s involvement in the Glyn Burton murder investigation had provided some short-term distraction, in truth, the situation regarding Commander Jenkins and Charles Cope had continued to nag away at him. The events of the past twenty-four hours had simply brought this inner turmoil to the surface once again.
‘They are such a lovely family,’ said Mary, not for the first time.
‘Yes, they are,’ agreed Tom, although he couldn’t help thinking that it had nothing to do with him.
Paul, Kerry and the kids had now travelled to Birmingham in order to visit Paul’s uncle. Last night they had agreed, when they returned, to meet up with Tom and Mary again before they flew back to Australia.
Later, after Tom and Mary had had something to eat, they settled down to watch a programme that both of them particularly enjoyed. Tom, though, just couldn’t relax, and this was not lost on Mary.
‘Are you all right?’ she eventually asked. ‘You don’t seem to be yourself.’ Before he could say anything, though, she continued. ‘I’m not an expert in these things, but I would imagine it does take some time before the full impact of what’s happened really starts to sink in. Is there anything I can do?’
‘It’s not just that,’ he answered. ‘Although, of course, it is a factor. But there’s something else.’ Even as he said those words, he wondered whether he would regret saying them. Under normal circumstances, it was not something he would have shared with anyone. But these were not normal circumstances, and one thing he had learnt during his time with Mary was that not only was she a good listener, but she also somehow managed to provide the right advice. He’d often thought how, if she had been around earlier in his life, perhaps he might not now be so reluctant to share or even show his emotions.
A look of puzzlement appeared on Mary’s face. ‘What is it, then?’
‘It’s related to DS Milner.’
‘I know you said he’d taken it especially badly, and was really struggling to come to terms with Gary’s death, but isn’t that quite normal?’
‘I’m sure it is, but there’s something else,’ he answered. Before Mary could ask what that something was, he began to tell her about his conversation with Superintendent Birch, who’d informed him of the likelihood of DS Milner being suspended. He then told her about his subsequent conversation with Sir Peter.
‘So you’ve resigned?’ she asked, her voice reflecting her astonishment.
‘No,’ he answered. ‘I haven’t resigned. Well, not yet, anyhow. What I did was inform the Commissioner that I would consider resigning if they go ahead with Milner’s suspension.’
‘How likely is that?’ she asked.
‘What? Resigning or Milner being suspended?’
‘I suppose both, actually.’
Tom hesitated briefly before replying, knowing the likely impact his answer would have, not just on his career but almost certainly on their relationship as well. ‘The more I think about it, the more I’m convinced I should resign if he is suspended.’
‘You’re not just making that decision because, right now, you are angry?’ she asked. ‘Wouldn’t it be better not to make any decision until a day or so after you know what will happen?’
Tom knew she was right. As a rule of thumb, it was best – particularly for someone like him, with such a calculating personality – to wait until emotions had subsided. On the other hand, he’d also, throughout his career, trusted his instincts. Sometimes, however high feelings are running at the time, your immediate response is the correct response. ‘I know you are right, but I just feel so strongly about this.’
‘But what about if they decide to suspend you instead? Won’t that also affect your career?’
‘I’m sure it would, but, frankly, I’m at the point where I don’t really care any more.’
Mary fell momentarily silent. Eventually, though, she said, ‘Whatever you decide to do, you know, don’t you, that I’ll be here to support you?’
A thin smile appeared on Tom’s face, and then he took hold of her hand. ‘I know that,’ he simply answered.
Chapter 57
The following morning, Milner visited Tom’s office.
Almost as soon as he was seated, Milner said, with a degree of enthusiasm which had been missing in his recent demeanour, ‘I just received a call from a contact of mine at North London. He told me the two men arrested after Gary’s death have been formally charged with his murder, together with the attack on Craig Blackwell. They’ve also obtained more evidence linking them to drug dealing.’
‘That’s good news,’ answered Tom, unable to quite match Milner’s obvious positivity.
‘They are also considering charging Craig Blackwell with possession,’ Milner added.
‘I would imagine that’s the least of his problems right now.’
‘What about all the secrecy regarding the sale of land at the golf club? Do you think it will still go ahead now?’
‘That’s a good question,’ answered Tom, pleased that Milner was, once again, showing a bit of his normal enthusiasm. ‘I’d forgotten all about that. It must be all they are talking about at West London Golf Club. Anyway, that’s one for the lawyers, I suppose.’
Tom was still very concerned for Milner, certain that he would react badly to any suspension. All he could do in the meantime, though, was try to carry on as normal – well, at least, as normally as anyone could after the death of a close colleague – and be there for him if it did happen.
‘Have you heard yet when Gary’s funeral is likely to be?’ asked Milner.
‘I haven’t, no,’ replied Tom. ‘It will depend on when the PM can be done. I hope, for Julie’s sake, that it’s soon.’
Just then, Tom’s phone rang.
�
��It’s Jenny,’ said the voice on the other end of the phone. ‘Are you able to come up to see Superintendent Birch?’
‘When?’ replied Tom.
‘Well, he did say to ask if you are available right now.’
‘Okay. I’m on my way.’
As he made his way up the fifth floor, he had a strong sense of foreboding. Jenny was not her usual chatty and friendly self and he had picked out clear concern in the tone of her voice. When he arrived this feeling was further confirmed when she simply said, ‘Superintendent Birch is waiting to see you.’
As soon as he entered the room, Superintendent Birch, discarding the usual pleasantries, said, ‘Tom, I have bad news. I’ve just learnt DS Milner will shortly be informed of his suspension whilst the investigation into the circumstances of DC Bennett’s death continues.’
Although this news still hit Tom hard, deep down he was not especially surprised. He had been able to sense, from his previous conversations, which way this particular wind was blowing.
‘How did you find out?’ he asked.
‘I’ve just received a call from the Commissioner.’ But, before Tom could ask any follow-up questions, Superintendent Birch continued. ‘If it’s any consolation, he did mention that he had made a case for DS Milner not to be suspended whilst the investigation was ongoing. He spoke personally to the head of the inquiry team. Unfortunately, he wasn’t successful.’
‘You said DS Milner will be informed shortly. Just how shortly will that be?’ asked Tom.
‘I believe he will receive an email later today informing him that he will be suspended. He will then have a meeting with the head of the inquiry team, off site, tomorrow morning.’
Tom remained quiet as he tried to take on board the full implications of what Superintendent Birch had just told him. Finally, he spoke again. ‘Would it be possible for me to speak with him before he receives the email? It’s likely he will want to discuss it with me anyway, as soon as he gets it.’
‘I’m afraid that’s not possible, Tom,’ Superintendent Birch quickly answered. ‘You – or anyone else, for that matter – cannot be seen to be involved at this stage. If you were, then it’s possible it could be construed as applying undue influence. Frankly, the last thing DS Milner needs is for the inquiry to be compromised – albeit with the best of intentions.’ There was even more bad news to come. ‘It will be explicitly stated, in the email, that DS Milner should not discuss this with anyone – and that includes you – whilst the inquiry is being carried out. It’s likely, of course, you will be called to give evidence, but, unless and until that happens, you should make it crystal clear to DS Milner that, if he does want to discuss it with you, you are not able to do so.’ He paused briefly. ‘Tom? Do you understand that?’
After another brief moment of silence Tom simply answered, ‘Yes.’
‘Look, Tom, we both know DS Milner did absolutely nothing wrong and in no way contributed to the death of DC Bennett. I’m sure the inquiry will also come to that conclusion and he will be totally exonerated. The best way we can help DS Milner is to follow the procedure to the letter. I’m sure you will get your chance to speak on his behalf when they call you. I’m fully expecting that I will also be called. That will be our opportunity.’
As Tom left the office, Jenny looked up. ‘Is everything okay, sir?’
Tom, whilst trying to sound as positive as possible, could only bring himself to say, ‘I’m sure it will be.’
*
It wasn’t long after Tom’s discussion with Superintendent Birch that an ashen-faced Milner appeared in Tom’s office. In his hand he was holding a single sheet of paper. Tom didn’t need to guess why Milner was here.
‘I’ve just received this,’ Milner said, handing over the sheet to Tom. Given his appearance, together with what the sheet was likely to contain, the tone of his voice was surprisingly calm.
Tom took the sheet and quickly read through it, before handing it back. ‘Why don’t you sit down?’
‘You don’t seem surprised,’ said Milner.
‘No, I’m not, although I only found out yesterday that this was being considered.’ He immediately carried on. ‘David, I know you are bound to be upset, but it is standard procedure to carry out an independent inquiry under these circumstances. That usually involves the temporary suspension of the senior investigating officer until the inquiry delivers its findings.’
‘But weren’t you the SIO?’ asked Milner.
Tom didn’t immediately respond. Milner’s question was perfectly logical and one which, although he’d anticipated it, he had not been looking forward to replying to.
‘I was, at least until I vested that authority in you, when I took a few days’ holiday. I know it’s of little consolation right now, but I have already made the point, to both Superintendent Birch and the Commissioner himself, that it should be me who is suspended, not you. Unfortunately, the matter is out of their hands. The decision is that of the independent police inquiry.’
Now it was Milner’s turn to remain silent. Tom, for once, decided to fill that silence.
‘I have to tell you, officially, I am not allowed to discuss any of this with you whilst the inquiry is in progress. Unofficially, however, I want you to know that, should you wish, I will be here and available.’ It was a decision he had taken after his last meeting with Superintendent Birch. Whatever the consequences for Tom personally, he wasn’t about to abandon Milner.
‘Thank you, sir. I appreciate that,’ replied Milner, albeit in a discernibly downbeat tone. ‘I’m sure you have already done everything possible.’
‘My immediate suggestion is that you should consult with your union representative,’ Tom said. ‘You will be interviewed and it might be useful to have representation during this. What’s also important is for you to refer to any notes you took at the time, as well as writing down anything you can remember that was discussed with Gary during the period immediately prior to his death.’
It was at this point the seriousness of the situation suddenly seemed to hit Milner. ‘I can’t believe this is happening. What am I supposed to have done wrong? Surely I can’t be blamed for Gary’s death?’
‘I know it’s not easy right now, but you should know that you have the full support of Superintendent Birch and Sir Peter, as well as mine. I’m sure the inquiry team will quickly come to the conclusion that Gary’s death could not have been prevented.’
Something else suddenly came to Milner’s mind. ‘What will Gary’s family think when they hear this?’ he asked, with increased concern.
‘Gary was an experienced officer who died whilst bravely carrying out his duty. Julie and her family understand that and this inquiry will not alter the way they feel.’
Both men remained quiet for a while, until Tom broke the silence. ‘David, I really do think it would be best if you went home. It will only make things worse if you hang around here. You know the way the grapevine works in a station. It won’t be long before rumours start to spread. Someone will have heard something from someone else, who thought they’d overheard something being said.’
‘I suppose you’re right,’ Milner answered in a matter-of-fact manner, before turning and heading towards the door.
‘There’s one other thing,’ said Tom. ‘You will have to hand over your warrant card and any other police ID.’
For the first time, Tom really did think that Milner was about to break down. But, with almost supreme willpower, he somehow held himself together, handed over all of his ID cards and then walked out of the office.
Chapter 58
‘I’m really glad we were able to spend some more time together before we flew home,’ said Kerry. ‘It’s been wonderful meeting you both.’
‘Well, we’ve both enjoyed it as well,’ replied Mary. ‘I’m so happy it worked out well for everyone. You never really know with this type of thing, do you?’
Mary and Kerry, along with Sam and Emily, were seated together in a coffee shop at Hea
throw airport, waiting for the family’s return flight to be called. Tom and Paul were at the counter, ordering some drinks.
‘Yes, I do know what you mean,’ Kerry said. She looked in the direction of her husband. ‘You wouldn’t think so, looking at them right now, but he was so anxious about meeting Tom.’
‘If it’s any consolation, Tom was exactly the same.’ Mary paused momentarily. ‘He’s had a lot to contend with recently at work, and meeting you all has, I’m sure, been just what he needed.’
‘Yes, I’ve heard about some of it, but it’s only when you know the person involved that you fully understand what they have to go through.’ After a moment Kerry added, with increased concern in her voice, ‘Do you think he will be okay?’
‘To be honest, I don’t really know,’ answered Mary. ‘As you’ve probably realised already, Tom is not the type of person who wears his heart on his sleeve. He tends to keep those feelings to himself. Even though we’ve been together for a while now, I still can’t really tell how he is truly feeling. We have discussed this a few times in the past, but it just seems so difficult for him to really admit how he feels. In fact, this last week or so, whilst you’ve all been here, he’s been as open as I’ve ever seen him. I think it’s helped that Sam and Emily have been around.’
‘Yes, I can see that. To be honest, we weren’t quite sure how they would react when they met him. But I suppose we shouldn’t have worried.’
‘Tom’s not naturally comfortable in the company of young children. But,’ Mary said, ‘I know he’s really enjoyed seeing them.’
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