Page 33 of The Scene of the Crime

Chapman turned to Jessica with a rueful frown. ‘Sorry about that . . .’

‘Thanks for sticking up for me,’ she said. ‘He’s obviously got some issues.’

‘Is that your assessment as a profiler?’ Chapman asked with a grin.

‘Just an observation. People who are insecure about their abilities often try to boost their self-esteem by belittling others.’

‘Well, from the looks on their faces, the team are on your side,’ he said.

Chapman knocked on Anderson’s door and let Jessica enter first. DCI Anderson was still on the phone.

‘I’ll be there as soon as I can, dear.’ He quickly put the phone down.

‘Everything all right, sir?’ Chapman asked.

‘Um, it was Commander Williams. I’m running late for a meeting with her, so we’ll have to postpone our chat until tomorrow.’ He stood up, removed his jacket from the back of the chair and put it on.

Jessica took the USB stick from her shoulder bag. ‘This contains the crime scene videos and photos, sir.’

‘Give it to DI Chapman and he’ll upload it to the HOLMES computer. I’d also like you to do a full report of your sceneanalysis, forensic exhibits and strategy . . . including everything Mrs De Klerk told you, then put it on HOLMES. I’ll read and review it in the morning, then circulate it to the team.’

‘I don’t have access to the HOLMES system,’ Jessica said.

He frowned. ‘Then give it to someone on my team who has.’

‘There are a couple of things I’d like to ask,’ Jessica said as Anderson picked up his briefcase.

‘Make it quick,’ he sighed.

‘I’d like a forensic pathologist to attend the hospital, speak with Mr De Klerk’s surgeon and examine his injuries.’

Anderson gave her a look of disdain. ‘He’s not bloody dead yet!’

‘I know, but a surgeon is not an expert in interpreting injuries, their pattern or causation. Forensic pathologists, unlike doctors, are also trained in the rules of evidence and considered experts by the courts. If De Klerk survives, a pathologist’s report could be invaluable evidence.’

‘Very well, I’ll leave you to organise it. If that’s all . . .’

Jessica hadn’t finished. ‘I also think a victim profile on Johan De Klerk would benefit the investigation. I’ve formed a rapport with Michelle, so I’d like to interview her about Johan’s lifestyle, his work and . . .’

Anderson pursed his lips. ‘Absolutely not. You are not an FLO or a detective. Mrs De Klerk needs to be treated sensitively and compassionately so we can gather evidence and information that will contribute to the investigation and preserve its integrity.’

Chapman knew he was quoting virtually word for word from the homicide and major crime investigation manual. He gave Jessica another covert glance.

‘As you know, I have a background in psychology . . .’ she began to protest.

‘Interpreting a crime scene and being an FLO involve different skills. A statement from Mrs De Klerk will be taken tomorrow morning, which you’re welcome to read.’

‘I did the FLO course, albeit a few years ago, but I’m happy to interview Mrs De Klerk, if you’re too busy to see her,’ Chapman said.

‘No, I’ve already appointed DC Owens as the FLO. As my deputy, I need you here to help run the investigation. I’ll meet with Mrs De Klerk in the morning. In the meantime, Miss Russell can give DC Owens the details of their conversation at the hospital.’

‘Will you be holding a press conference?’ Chapman asked.

‘I don’t see the need now we know Mrs De Klerk is safe and well. Besides, burglaries and assaults in Hackney are an everyday occurrence, so it’s unlikely to be headline news. I also want to avoid panic among the local community.’

Chapman suspected he was frightened of appearing on camera and facing probing questions from journalists. ‘That may be the case, sir, but do you not think the press will be interested when they discover the victim is the husband of Michelle Belsham?’

‘I’m sure Mrs De Klerk doesn’t want the press camping on her doorstep, so let’s ensure that fact isn’t released.’ He looked at Jessica. ‘Have you found any evidence to help us identify the person responsible?’