There was no doubt that Father Tenpenny had done an incredible amount of work in spreading the word when it came to the food giveaway.
They had arrived two hours prior to the actual event, somewhat surprised when a handful of homeless men had already gathered in front of the Mission Dolores Basilica, waiting for their chance on a hearty meal.
Trying to appear as inconspicuous as possible, the team had dispersed into their assigned positions, Hassejian, Lessing and Tanner helping Tenpenny set up, while Steve stayed in the background along with the guys from Vice, choosing an abandoned store front across the street from the Basilica's parking lot as their observation area.
Begrudging every minute of Mike's plan that sounded- as usual- a lot easier said than done, the young Inspector had set up his temporary quarters, checking the time, then finding a spot against the barren brick wall that was comfortable enough for the next couple of hours.
Once you see our guys, Mike had said enthusiastically, wait until they've had their bowl of chili. Use that time to get a good make on them. Then you move in.
He'd scoffed at the idea of just staying back for now, but also respected the experience behind Mike's words, not wanting to disrupt the operation to make their move. There was no telling what the news might do with a story of a bunch of SFPD cops jumping onto defenseless homeless people in the midst of a police- sponsored benefit event.
Then again, if something were to go south, it was his partner and best friend in the crossfire; a fact that did little to settle Steve's sour mood that afternoon.
With the radio weighing heavily in his right-hand coat pocket, Steve leaned against the brick wall, ensuring there was a clear path between his hideout and the chili crock in case trouble arose.
From his distance, he could see Father Tenpenny ushering the rest of the detectives around, undoubtedly barking orders as intensely as Mike would, getting tables set up and silverware brought in.
By the sheer minute, more people began to trickle in, the invigorating scent of delicious homemade food travelling across several city blocks, reeling in every hungry soul there was.
And hopefully, sooner or later, also Albert and Ricky.
At ninety minutes before showdown, Steve pulled the radio out of his pocket, trying to ignore the slight shaking of his hand.
"This is Inspectors 8-1, Patrol Unit 5-Charlie-74, do you read?"
"Loud and clear, Steve.", came the prompt answer from several blocks away.
"Harold, are your guys all in position?"
"They sure are.", Sergeant Lindsay answered patiently, having had to reassure him several times by now, "We're watching the crowds slowly trickle in over here."
"It looks like we're going to have a big group. I dropped Mike off a couple blocks south of here, he should show up any minute. Please radio as soon as you see our suspects and keep a close eye on Mike. Some of the guys might recognize him. There could be trouble. And he's unarmed."
"10-4, Steve. Just remember, Mike's a veteran. He knows what he's doing. Lindsay out."
Exhaling slowly, Steve glanced over to the right, two doors down, where the Vice guys had set up camp. With a slight nod of the head, he ensured them that everything was going to plan so far.
He could only hope that luck would remain in their favor.
