Page 62 of Near Miss

“I expect that the Greek has committed crimes in Maine, New York, and, perhaps, in other cities and states. We could pickone, but I think it’s better, in this case, to go federal, if the evidence you have supports a federal crime.”

“How about income tax evasion?”

“Very good. That’s how Eliot Ness got Al Capone, when he couldn’t get him for anything else.”

“So, we go to the FBI?”

“Yes, but the right person at the FBI.”

“And who might that be?”

“I might not trust most of the agents I have dealt with, but there is one who should be a straight enough arrow for this. His name is Thomas Kinder; he’s assistant director for financial crimes.”

“Whoever you wish.”

Stone dug a throwaway cell phone from his desk drawer and dialed a number. “Assistant Director Kinder, please,” he said to the person who answered.

A moment later, another man came on the line. “This is Assistant Director Kinder.”

Stone put the phone on speaker. “Tom, it’s Stone Barrington.”

“Good day, Stone. What a surprise to hear from you.”

“I have something that should go to someone at your level and not to the New York office.”

“Well, I am at my level. Shoot.”

“I have a client who is in possession of sufficient evidence of tax evasion and fraud to put Alexei Gromyko and many members of his organization in prison for a long time.”

“So, you’re playing Eliot Ness?”

“No, you are, if you want this case.”

“In what form is the evidence?”

“It’s on a thumb drive.”

“And over what period of time were these crimes committed?”

“Seven years.”

“And this witness is inside Gromyko’s organization?”

“He was, until recently.”

“And what does he expect for his cooperation?”

“The usual: immunity for any crime he may ever have committed and, very possibly, witness protection.” Stone looked at Greco to confirm, which Greco did with a slight nod.

“And where is this witness now?”

“In New York City.”

“Where in New York City?”

“In a safe place. You will have access to him as soon as you agree, in writing, to a fulsome statement of immunity, and an agreement that you, and only you, will deal with my client.”

“This is an organization. He cannot deal only with me.”

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