Authors note: Thank you for all the feedback thus far! It has been great to
get such positive responses. Please keep it coming! The more I get the
faster I crank this out!
Chapter 4
0900 ZULU JAG Headquarters
Harm's office
Good morning Commander
Morning Coates
Commander, the Admiral would like to see you.
I'm on my way
Sir, the SecNav is with him
Thanks for the heads up Jennifer (Smiles at her)
Your welcome sir.
(Harm knocks on the Admirals door)
Enter
Reporting as ordered sir
At ease. Have a seat Commander. (Harm sits in a chair facing AJ's desk)
Mr. Secretary (Greeting Sheffield)
Commander (Nodding his head at Harm)
Commander Rabb, Secretary Sheffield has come up with some information that you may or may not find pertinent to Lieutenant Sheffield's defense.
Presently Commander, there are some individuals who have an axe to grind either with me personally or the Navy in general. I'm really not sure that they would have anything to do with this, but you asked for everything I had so here it is.
Who are they sir? (Asked Harm) It comes down to three different individuals. All involved in one policy decisions war or another with Naval interests. All three are heavy players in Washington and getting additional Intel on them will not be easy. Here is a file with all the details my staff and I could come up with on short notice. If I find out anything further you will be the first to know.
Sir, I know it looks uphill but after reviewing the facts of your son's case, the more it seems that this had less to do with you personally and everything to do with his work at Naval Intelligence or striking at the Navy through you. That being said, I do need to ask you some questions regarding your son.
Shoot Commander.
Does he have a history of violence, or violent outbursts? I mean anything and everything sir, because Colonel Mackenzie will use the slightest thing against him.
Commander should the Admiral be witness to this conversation? (Asked Sheffield glancing in AJ's direction)
I have already obtained your sons consent for the Admiral's presence through my interview with you. Reason being is that I believe he should be privy to information that you give me to assist in the handling of the media storm we are about to face.
Good idea Commander. To answer your question no my son has never had a violent history.
I've seen his service record sir and it says that he went into Naval Intelligence because of his skills with electronic surveillance and communications.
That is accurate.
How long was he seeing the victim?
About six months. . Did you know her well?
I met her twice. Once at a family dinner when my son introduced us and another time at a Naval event in DC. That was about a month ago.
How close are you with your son?
Commander my son and I have a good relationship, but you have to understand that he has chosen to make his own way in life. He could have been a lawyer, worked to get into the political system, but because of his interests and talents, he chose to serve his country a different way than I have.
Do you resent him for that?
I'm not sure where you are going with this Rabb...
Sir, I am trying to learn more about your son and making sure that I fulfill my commitment to his defense. To do that I need all the help I can get. Furthermore, I am preparing you for his trial, because these are questions you will be asked and they'll be a lot harsher coming from Colonel Mackenzie or the media.
I see...no I don't resent my son for his choice to do things on his own. As a father who thankfully has been successful in life, I obviously wanted to provide my only child with easier means to attain success than were given to me, but he wanted to be self made and I respect him for that. With our time consuming careers however we don't spend as much time together as we would like. He won't even accept favors from me to get him extra leave to go on vacation with the family annually. Funny, it seems so trivial, but you have to respect his attitude towards his work and his life.
That I do sir. Ok that's what I needed to hear from you for now.
(Sheffield hands the folder he was referencing earlier to Harm) Commander in this folder is the information I collected. Guard its contents carefully and inform me daily of your actions in regards to the individuals listed here. These people are savvy political adversaries and connected at the highest level.
I will sir.
(Sheffield gets up to leave) Good luck Commander and don't hesitate for a moment to call if you need anything else.
One more thing sir.
Yes
Regarding the media, the attention is already huge, but for your son's sake, please refrain from being more than just a supportive parent for now. I'll make sure justice is served.
Then find the real killer Commander! (Sheffield states flatly)
Yes sir.
(Sheffield leaves. AJ looks up to Harm rubbing his eyes. Harm goes through the three names in the file Sheffield gave him)
Ok, the top of the list are: Jeff François who has been the most vocal senator in congress about the Navy and its actions in regards to conduct and National defense. Joseph Morley CEO of Ziotech Industries, one of the largest defense contractors of missile guidance software. The Navy recently rejected a bid they made and Morley was very vocal about his objections. Lastly David Haynes, the Secretary of Defense. He and Sheffield have clashed over the last year about numerous appropriations, actions and policies. All heavy Washington players.
My god Harm any of these guys have motive to want to get at Sheffield, but why through framing his son for the murder of his girlfriend. It seems a bit extreme for professional disputes.
There must be a deeper motive than what is on the surface. Who knows maybe they knew the victim herself. I just now have to find it.
Well Commander I hope you know what you are doing because this is one dangerous game you are about to play.
Wednesday 0830 Zulu JAG Courtroom
All Rise (The jury stands up. Admiral Morris enters the courtroom and takes his seat on the bench)
Be seated. This General Court Marshal #32085 the government verses Lieutenant James Allen Sheffield in the charge of Murder in the second degree shall come to order. Is the government ready to proceed with their opening statement?
(Seated at the prosecution table are Mac and Bud)
We are your honor. (States Mac)
The floor is yours then Colonel (Says Admiral Morris)
(Mac stands up and begins her opening statement) The charges of this court marshal are against Lieutenant James Allen Sheffield for the murder in the second degree of Lauren Stratus, a civilian who happened to be his girlfriend. On the evening of January 24 Lieutenant James Sheffield returned to the home of his girlfriend Lauren Stratus together from dinner. At some point in the night, for some unknown reason, perhaps jealousy or rage, Lieutenant Sheffield took a kitchen knife to the victim and proceeded to stab her twelve times, thus killing her. When DC police arrived at the scene they found Lieutenant Sheffield passed out, probably from the amount of alcohol he drank earlier, with near the victim's bloody body, and with the murder weapon two feet from his hand. These are undisputed facts and no matter the song and dance the defense puts on for you here, at the end of this trial, these facts will be the only things supported. Thank you.
(Mac sits down smiles to herself. Short, sweet and factual. This should be a slam dunk...if only it wasn't Harm she was up against)
Nice opening Ma'am
Thank you Bud.
Is the defense ready to proceed with their opening? (Asks Admiral Morris)
We are your honor. (States Harm as he gets up)
Please proceed
The government has told you some pretty ugly things this morning, but they left a few things out. I want to take you through their statements and let's see if we can question their validity before this court marshal gets underway. First they say that my client perhaps committed this gruesome act in a fit of jealousy or rage, but the truth is they are only saying that because there is no motive that they could find. My client loved his girlfriend without question; there was no other man in her life, no reason anyone can establish for him to be upset with her. She was a beautiful woman with a lot to offer a man. Both of them had flourishing careers and what witnesses will say was a great chemistry between them. Why would he kill her? What would he have to gain? Second it's true what they say my client was found passed out near the body; here is the question to ask yourselves. If you had just stabbed someone to death, would you hang around and fall asleep near the victim's body? Probably not, but we'll come back to that at a later time. Lastly they stated that the amount of alcohol the Lieutenant drank was a contributing factor to provoking him to kill his girlfriend, however they fail to mention that when at dinner he had consumed one glass of wine and when at home states that he had one beer. I know, you're thinking well of course he said that, I mean why incriminate himself as a deranged drunk. But NCIS had blood and toxicology work done upon taking the Lieutenant into custody and his blood alcohol level shows him at 0.04% the equivalent of one beer. Hardly enough for a grown man to loose control over himself or at the very least pass out after exertion. The government will paint a picture of the defendant to make him look like a jealous boyfriend with rage control issues, but the facts simply are that this is a good officer with several letters of commendation from his CO for conduct and performance. This is a man who despite having every opportunity in the world given to him by family, will step up to the plate on his own accord to serve his country and make his own way. This is a man who has just lost the love of his life and is grieving and fighting for it simultaneously. These are the facts of Lieutenant James Allen Sheffield and when the government is done painting their picture of this case, we'll wash the watercolors off the canvas and give you the truth. Thank you for your time.
Wow he hasn't lost a beat (Bud to himself)
Excuse me Lieutenant? (Mac agitated knowing that Harm's opening was damn good)
Nothing ma'am (defensively)
I didn't think so. (she snaps)
(Admiral Morris speaks) Are there any motions to be heard before we proceed with the government's case?
(Harm stands up and speaks) Your honor, the defense respectfully requests a small continuance
What's the problem Commander?
In truth sir, we just haven't had enough time to interview all the government witnesses
Have they been made available to you Commander?
Yes sir, full disclosure has been given as would be expected, however the overwhelming amount of physical evidence tied in with the immense amount of character and professional witnesses we will hear from have not all been available to be interviewed in the weeks preparation time given.
I see...how long do you need Commander.
Just through the weekend your honor
Colonel Mackenzie any objections
We are ready to precede your honor, but if the defense needs more time then no objection
(Admiral Morris considers the motion and then speaks) Normally I would not even entertain this motion, but due to the unwanted attention this case has drawn, I would be foolish not to ensure that a fair AND speedy trial took place. The defenses motion is granted. This court marshal will re-convene at 0900 Monday at which time the government will present its first witness. (Admiral Morris slams his gavel) All rise (Admiral Morris exits followed by the members. Sheffield is taken back into custody and led to the Brig Bud walks up to Harm)
Nice opening sir.
Thanks Bud. The Colonel didn't do to bad herself (looks at Mac and half smiles).
Wow Harm I would almost take it as a compliment if I didn't know you so well.
(Harm looks Mac directly in the eye, straight faced)
What makes you think you do Mac? (He walks out of the courtroom)
Hmm... (coming from Bud as he watches Harm leave)
(Mac, irritated spins around to Bud's half comment) Lieutenant, if you feel the Commander is doing so well, maybe the Commander will find a spot for you on his team!
(Bud taken back by her comment thinks deeply and quickly before responding) I apologize if I offended you ma'am however please know that my commitment to this case remains the same as it was the day the Admiral assigned me as second chair. Respectfully ma'am, I don't think complimenting the Commander on a good opening statement especially after being benched for six months is nothing to be concerned with.
(Mac pauses, knowing she was wrong) I'm sorry Bud, your right.
Permission to speak freely ma'am?
Granted
(Bud starts off a little sharply) You know, when Commander Rabb left JAG I wasn't all that thrilled, I mean, you and he have been mentor's to me over the past 7 years. But what really started to bug me is that an interval part of the team and maybe family that we've all become had left us, not without good reason mind you, but left none the less. When the Admiral wouldn't let him return I thought well there goes one of the central cogs in the wheel that keeps this office moving. More work for us, no sounding board when I need help, just a real piece of the team gone. Pretty selfish don't you think.
Maybe a little (knowing that she had some of the same thoughts when Harm was not permitted to return to JAG)
(Bud softens his tone just a bit, still making his point) But, what I didn't realize until a little bit after Jimmy was born, was that I really just missed my friend. Yeah work became a little harder and we all had to step up to the plate, but that wasn't the real issue. Truth is, aside from Mikey, Harm is the closest thing to a brother that I have. Like with everyone else he didn't keep in contact and Harriet and I with the exception of the brief call to congratulate us on the new baby. I like you moved on with my everyday life. But I never forgot how when I needed him, Harm was always there to have my back no matter what. Whether it be professionally, or to give me a personal swift kick in the six when I was inadvertently alienating my wife he helped to get me back in focus when I needed it. As much as I wanted to be angry with him for leaving and not keeping in contact, I realized all that he had done for me and how much I really had to be thankful for. I really wonder where I would be had I not had him in my life. And I'm pretty damned proud of where I'm at. I think he's done that for a lot of people. Sure he's an arrogant jerk from time to time, but I wonder where the rest of us including yourself, would be if we didn't have him around the last 7 or 8 years.
I ah, really don't know what to say to that Bud...
You will when the time is right, but think about it ma'am. It might mean nothing to you and it might help you gain some perspective. Excuse me ma'am I owe my wife a phone call (he smiles to Mac, turns and walks out of the courtroom)
(To herself) Damn it Mac, why can't you keep your personal feelings outside this room. And why is Bud of all people suddenly making the most sense?!
TO BE CONTINUED...
Chapter 4
0900 ZULU JAG Headquarters
Harm's office
Good morning Commander
Morning Coates
Commander, the Admiral would like to see you.
I'm on my way
Sir, the SecNav is with him
Thanks for the heads up Jennifer (Smiles at her)
Your welcome sir.
(Harm knocks on the Admirals door)
Enter
Reporting as ordered sir
At ease. Have a seat Commander. (Harm sits in a chair facing AJ's desk)
Mr. Secretary (Greeting Sheffield)
Commander (Nodding his head at Harm)
Commander Rabb, Secretary Sheffield has come up with some information that you may or may not find pertinent to Lieutenant Sheffield's defense.
Presently Commander, there are some individuals who have an axe to grind either with me personally or the Navy in general. I'm really not sure that they would have anything to do with this, but you asked for everything I had so here it is.
Who are they sir? (Asked Harm) It comes down to three different individuals. All involved in one policy decisions war or another with Naval interests. All three are heavy players in Washington and getting additional Intel on them will not be easy. Here is a file with all the details my staff and I could come up with on short notice. If I find out anything further you will be the first to know.
Sir, I know it looks uphill but after reviewing the facts of your son's case, the more it seems that this had less to do with you personally and everything to do with his work at Naval Intelligence or striking at the Navy through you. That being said, I do need to ask you some questions regarding your son.
Shoot Commander.
Does he have a history of violence, or violent outbursts? I mean anything and everything sir, because Colonel Mackenzie will use the slightest thing against him.
Commander should the Admiral be witness to this conversation? (Asked Sheffield glancing in AJ's direction)
I have already obtained your sons consent for the Admiral's presence through my interview with you. Reason being is that I believe he should be privy to information that you give me to assist in the handling of the media storm we are about to face.
Good idea Commander. To answer your question no my son has never had a violent history.
I've seen his service record sir and it says that he went into Naval Intelligence because of his skills with electronic surveillance and communications.
That is accurate.
How long was he seeing the victim?
About six months. . Did you know her well?
I met her twice. Once at a family dinner when my son introduced us and another time at a Naval event in DC. That was about a month ago.
How close are you with your son?
Commander my son and I have a good relationship, but you have to understand that he has chosen to make his own way in life. He could have been a lawyer, worked to get into the political system, but because of his interests and talents, he chose to serve his country a different way than I have.
Do you resent him for that?
I'm not sure where you are going with this Rabb...
Sir, I am trying to learn more about your son and making sure that I fulfill my commitment to his defense. To do that I need all the help I can get. Furthermore, I am preparing you for his trial, because these are questions you will be asked and they'll be a lot harsher coming from Colonel Mackenzie or the media.
I see...no I don't resent my son for his choice to do things on his own. As a father who thankfully has been successful in life, I obviously wanted to provide my only child with easier means to attain success than were given to me, but he wanted to be self made and I respect him for that. With our time consuming careers however we don't spend as much time together as we would like. He won't even accept favors from me to get him extra leave to go on vacation with the family annually. Funny, it seems so trivial, but you have to respect his attitude towards his work and his life.
That I do sir. Ok that's what I needed to hear from you for now.
(Sheffield hands the folder he was referencing earlier to Harm) Commander in this folder is the information I collected. Guard its contents carefully and inform me daily of your actions in regards to the individuals listed here. These people are savvy political adversaries and connected at the highest level.
I will sir.
(Sheffield gets up to leave) Good luck Commander and don't hesitate for a moment to call if you need anything else.
One more thing sir.
Yes
Regarding the media, the attention is already huge, but for your son's sake, please refrain from being more than just a supportive parent for now. I'll make sure justice is served.
Then find the real killer Commander! (Sheffield states flatly)
Yes sir.
(Sheffield leaves. AJ looks up to Harm rubbing his eyes. Harm goes through the three names in the file Sheffield gave him)
Ok, the top of the list are: Jeff François who has been the most vocal senator in congress about the Navy and its actions in regards to conduct and National defense. Joseph Morley CEO of Ziotech Industries, one of the largest defense contractors of missile guidance software. The Navy recently rejected a bid they made and Morley was very vocal about his objections. Lastly David Haynes, the Secretary of Defense. He and Sheffield have clashed over the last year about numerous appropriations, actions and policies. All heavy Washington players.
My god Harm any of these guys have motive to want to get at Sheffield, but why through framing his son for the murder of his girlfriend. It seems a bit extreme for professional disputes.
There must be a deeper motive than what is on the surface. Who knows maybe they knew the victim herself. I just now have to find it.
Well Commander I hope you know what you are doing because this is one dangerous game you are about to play.
Wednesday 0830 Zulu JAG Courtroom
All Rise (The jury stands up. Admiral Morris enters the courtroom and takes his seat on the bench)
Be seated. This General Court Marshal #32085 the government verses Lieutenant James Allen Sheffield in the charge of Murder in the second degree shall come to order. Is the government ready to proceed with their opening statement?
(Seated at the prosecution table are Mac and Bud)
We are your honor. (States Mac)
The floor is yours then Colonel (Says Admiral Morris)
(Mac stands up and begins her opening statement) The charges of this court marshal are against Lieutenant James Allen Sheffield for the murder in the second degree of Lauren Stratus, a civilian who happened to be his girlfriend. On the evening of January 24 Lieutenant James Sheffield returned to the home of his girlfriend Lauren Stratus together from dinner. At some point in the night, for some unknown reason, perhaps jealousy or rage, Lieutenant Sheffield took a kitchen knife to the victim and proceeded to stab her twelve times, thus killing her. When DC police arrived at the scene they found Lieutenant Sheffield passed out, probably from the amount of alcohol he drank earlier, with near the victim's bloody body, and with the murder weapon two feet from his hand. These are undisputed facts and no matter the song and dance the defense puts on for you here, at the end of this trial, these facts will be the only things supported. Thank you.
(Mac sits down smiles to herself. Short, sweet and factual. This should be a slam dunk...if only it wasn't Harm she was up against)
Nice opening Ma'am
Thank you Bud.
Is the defense ready to proceed with their opening? (Asks Admiral Morris)
We are your honor. (States Harm as he gets up)
Please proceed
The government has told you some pretty ugly things this morning, but they left a few things out. I want to take you through their statements and let's see if we can question their validity before this court marshal gets underway. First they say that my client perhaps committed this gruesome act in a fit of jealousy or rage, but the truth is they are only saying that because there is no motive that they could find. My client loved his girlfriend without question; there was no other man in her life, no reason anyone can establish for him to be upset with her. She was a beautiful woman with a lot to offer a man. Both of them had flourishing careers and what witnesses will say was a great chemistry between them. Why would he kill her? What would he have to gain? Second it's true what they say my client was found passed out near the body; here is the question to ask yourselves. If you had just stabbed someone to death, would you hang around and fall asleep near the victim's body? Probably not, but we'll come back to that at a later time. Lastly they stated that the amount of alcohol the Lieutenant drank was a contributing factor to provoking him to kill his girlfriend, however they fail to mention that when at dinner he had consumed one glass of wine and when at home states that he had one beer. I know, you're thinking well of course he said that, I mean why incriminate himself as a deranged drunk. But NCIS had blood and toxicology work done upon taking the Lieutenant into custody and his blood alcohol level shows him at 0.04% the equivalent of one beer. Hardly enough for a grown man to loose control over himself or at the very least pass out after exertion. The government will paint a picture of the defendant to make him look like a jealous boyfriend with rage control issues, but the facts simply are that this is a good officer with several letters of commendation from his CO for conduct and performance. This is a man who despite having every opportunity in the world given to him by family, will step up to the plate on his own accord to serve his country and make his own way. This is a man who has just lost the love of his life and is grieving and fighting for it simultaneously. These are the facts of Lieutenant James Allen Sheffield and when the government is done painting their picture of this case, we'll wash the watercolors off the canvas and give you the truth. Thank you for your time.
Wow he hasn't lost a beat (Bud to himself)
Excuse me Lieutenant? (Mac agitated knowing that Harm's opening was damn good)
Nothing ma'am (defensively)
I didn't think so. (she snaps)
(Admiral Morris speaks) Are there any motions to be heard before we proceed with the government's case?
(Harm stands up and speaks) Your honor, the defense respectfully requests a small continuance
What's the problem Commander?
In truth sir, we just haven't had enough time to interview all the government witnesses
Have they been made available to you Commander?
Yes sir, full disclosure has been given as would be expected, however the overwhelming amount of physical evidence tied in with the immense amount of character and professional witnesses we will hear from have not all been available to be interviewed in the weeks preparation time given.
I see...how long do you need Commander.
Just through the weekend your honor
Colonel Mackenzie any objections
We are ready to precede your honor, but if the defense needs more time then no objection
(Admiral Morris considers the motion and then speaks) Normally I would not even entertain this motion, but due to the unwanted attention this case has drawn, I would be foolish not to ensure that a fair AND speedy trial took place. The defenses motion is granted. This court marshal will re-convene at 0900 Monday at which time the government will present its first witness. (Admiral Morris slams his gavel) All rise (Admiral Morris exits followed by the members. Sheffield is taken back into custody and led to the Brig Bud walks up to Harm)
Nice opening sir.
Thanks Bud. The Colonel didn't do to bad herself (looks at Mac and half smiles).
Wow Harm I would almost take it as a compliment if I didn't know you so well.
(Harm looks Mac directly in the eye, straight faced)
What makes you think you do Mac? (He walks out of the courtroom)
Hmm... (coming from Bud as he watches Harm leave)
(Mac, irritated spins around to Bud's half comment) Lieutenant, if you feel the Commander is doing so well, maybe the Commander will find a spot for you on his team!
(Bud taken back by her comment thinks deeply and quickly before responding) I apologize if I offended you ma'am however please know that my commitment to this case remains the same as it was the day the Admiral assigned me as second chair. Respectfully ma'am, I don't think complimenting the Commander on a good opening statement especially after being benched for six months is nothing to be concerned with.
(Mac pauses, knowing she was wrong) I'm sorry Bud, your right.
Permission to speak freely ma'am?
Granted
(Bud starts off a little sharply) You know, when Commander Rabb left JAG I wasn't all that thrilled, I mean, you and he have been mentor's to me over the past 7 years. But what really started to bug me is that an interval part of the team and maybe family that we've all become had left us, not without good reason mind you, but left none the less. When the Admiral wouldn't let him return I thought well there goes one of the central cogs in the wheel that keeps this office moving. More work for us, no sounding board when I need help, just a real piece of the team gone. Pretty selfish don't you think.
Maybe a little (knowing that she had some of the same thoughts when Harm was not permitted to return to JAG)
(Bud softens his tone just a bit, still making his point) But, what I didn't realize until a little bit after Jimmy was born, was that I really just missed my friend. Yeah work became a little harder and we all had to step up to the plate, but that wasn't the real issue. Truth is, aside from Mikey, Harm is the closest thing to a brother that I have. Like with everyone else he didn't keep in contact and Harriet and I with the exception of the brief call to congratulate us on the new baby. I like you moved on with my everyday life. But I never forgot how when I needed him, Harm was always there to have my back no matter what. Whether it be professionally, or to give me a personal swift kick in the six when I was inadvertently alienating my wife he helped to get me back in focus when I needed it. As much as I wanted to be angry with him for leaving and not keeping in contact, I realized all that he had done for me and how much I really had to be thankful for. I really wonder where I would be had I not had him in my life. And I'm pretty damned proud of where I'm at. I think he's done that for a lot of people. Sure he's an arrogant jerk from time to time, but I wonder where the rest of us including yourself, would be if we didn't have him around the last 7 or 8 years.
I ah, really don't know what to say to that Bud...
You will when the time is right, but think about it ma'am. It might mean nothing to you and it might help you gain some perspective. Excuse me ma'am I owe my wife a phone call (he smiles to Mac, turns and walks out of the courtroom)
(To herself) Damn it Mac, why can't you keep your personal feelings outside this room. And why is Bud of all people suddenly making the most sense?!
TO BE CONTINUED...