Chapter 110-111 - The Lawyer and Policeman

Chapter 110 — "Lessons from the East"

7:00 AM — Gustavo and Cris's Apartment, Downtown LA

Soft morning light flooded into the bedroom through the half-open curtains. The muffled sounds of the city began to swell like a routine symphony: distant horns, footsteps on the sidewalk, the rumble of the subway in the distance.

Gustavo sat at the dining room table, wearing a white cotton shirt and dark jeans. His hair was still slightly damp from his shower. In front of him was a laptop with more than ten tabs open, notes scattered throughout, and a slideshow opened in edit mode.

On the screen, the title:

"Integration, Innovation, and Efficiency — Strategic Lessons for the LAPD"

Presented by: Officer Gustavo Silva | LAPD - SWAT | DOD Consultant

Cris appeared in the kitchen, wearing a black SWAT shirt over sweat shorts.

"You didn't even sleep well and you're already at this intensity again." She smiled, placing a cup of coffee beside him.

"Today is important," he replied, taking the cup. "I want this presentation to reflect everything I learned in New York. So many good things we can adapt here."

"You're brilliant. They'll love it," she said, running her hand over his shoulder before heading to the bathroom. "And then... pizza with me on the couch. No exceptions."

"Deal," he replied, already focusing on his laptop.

9:45 AM — Mid-Wilshire Police Station, Main Auditorium

The auditorium was full. All the Mid-Wilshire officers, including rookies Nolan, Chen, and West, were there. In the front row sat Captain Zoe Anderson, Sergeant Grey, Captain Cortez, Commander Hicks, and a few SWAT representatives—including Hondo, Deacon, Luca, Tan, Street, and, of course, Cris, sitting next to Cortez, exchanging discreet smiles with Gustavo.

The lights dimmed slightly. Gustavo, now wearing his dark blue officer's uniform with his badge on his chest, stepped onto the small stage with the firm presence of someone who had something to say—and knew how to say it.

"Good morning, everyone," he said, projecting the first image: the New York skyline with the caption: "Integration and Tactical Studies Mission—March 2025."

— "I was in New York for two weeks. At the request of our leadership and on behalf of the LAPD, I visited tactical units, conventional police stations, specialized FBI units, and even the white-collar division. My goal was to understand what they do differently, what we can adapt, and what we do better—to continue evolving."

Slide 1: Interagency Integration

The screen displayed images of the ESU (Emergency Services Unit) training with paramedics and fire department personnel.

— "One of the greatest strengths I saw was the integration between different agencies. The ESU conducts constant joint training with the fire department, paramedics, FBI, and civilian units. This creates synergy, reduces miscommunication, and increases the effectiveness of crisis response."

Hicks nodded, crossing his arms.

"Let's implement this here," he whispered to Zoe, who was jotting something down.

Gustavo continued:

"My proposal is simple: create a quarterly integration calendar between our units: SWAT, patrol, APH, Fire Department, and, if possible, even law schools."

Slide 2: Continuing Education

The image now showed a chart with data: 40% of NYPD officers are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees sponsored by the department itself.

"Another thing that struck me: the institutional incentive for education. Many New York police officers are studying Law, Criminology, and Cyber Engineering. This leads to a higher level of decision-making and increases public respect for the police."

Grey raised his eyebrows, impressed.

"How do we do that here?"

"My suggestion is to create a partial scholarship program for those who want to study. And we already have contacts with universities that can establish partnerships with the LAPD."

Slide 3: Equipment

The image now showed Gustavo alongside members of the NY SWAT team and the FBI unit, comparing weapons.

—"Here we have a point of pride: we're at the forefront. The transition to Glock 17s and 19s, Safariland ALS/QLS holsters, MCX rifles, Daniel Defense MK18s, and BCMs has put us ahead of many departments in the country."

Hondo smiled. Deacon lightly punched Luca on the shoulder, silently celebrating.

—"They were impressed with our operational agility, especially in complex urban environments. Our work with CQB was praised by the ESU itself and the FBI's tactical division."

Slide 4: Hybrid Investigation

On the screen, a diagram showed police officers and analysts working side by side.

—"In the FBI's white-collar division, I saw a model of joint operations between civilian financial specialists and federal agents. This dramatically reduces response time in fraud and cybercrime."

Lopez raised his hand.

"Do you think we can apply this to simpler cases, like card fraud and digital scams?"

"Yes. And with the help of the cybercrime department, we can build a bridge with the private sector."

Zoe nodded, already planning the expansion.

Slide 5: Technical Training

The final image showed Gustavo in a shooting gallery with ESU staff, explaining the differences between grips, firing angles, and weapon maintenance.

"These meetings also gave me ideas for more technical training. We're going to add modules on advanced weapon maintenance, proper use of night vision goggles, silent movement, and CQB protocol with multiple hostages."

Tan and Street exchanged excited glances.

10:30 AM — Q&A

Zoe stood up.

"Gustavo... congratulations. You went above and beyond. And you came back with solid ideas. We'll adapt all of this. Now, does anyone have any questions?"

Nolan raised his hand.

"As a newbie, this is a bit overwhelming... but also exciting. What would you recommend to us, just starting out?"

Gustavo walked across the stage, looking at Nolan sincerely.

"Curiosity. Never stop asking questions, studying, trying to understand the 'why' behind each technique. And respect each specialization: from APH to SWAT. Everything makes a difference."

Chen added:

"Will there be space for us to participate in these trainings?"

Zoe answered before Gustavo:

"Yes, we will. Starting next month, we will open registration for rotating newcomers. Let's do this right."

11:15 AM — Post-Presentation

The auditorium was emptying. Gustavo was putting his materials in his briefcase when he was surrounded by Zoe, Cortez, Grey, and Hicks.

"You outdid yourself." — Zoe said.

—"These ideas will reshape what it means to be a police officer in LA," Hicks added.

—"I'm happy to help. And I want to implement something else: a living manual, with monthly contributions from all departments—creating a system that evolves with our practice."

Grey smirked.

—"You have my blessing. And my help."

Zoe nodded.

—"Go ahead, Gustavo. Now... go rest. You deserve it."

12:10 PM — At home

Gustavo opened the front door and smelled pizza in the oven.

Cris appeared with two slices in his hands and a smile that was worth more than any institutional praise.

—"Hey, Professor?"

—"I think it was a good day."

—"Then come here. Pizza, couch... and no laptop."

He tossed his blazer on the couch and plopped down beside her.

Finally, he was back. But now, stronger. More prepared. And more useful than ever.

Chapter 111 — "The Silence at Dam Neck"

Los Angeles, 4:17 AM — Gustavo and Cris's Apartment

The sound of the notification vibrating on his cell phone cut through the early morning silence. Gustavo woke instinctively. He grabbed his phone from where it rested beside his bed. The screen displayed an encrypted message:

"Formal request. DOD. Level TS/SCI. Location: Dam Neck. Case: Operator DEVGRU. Urgency: Immediate."

Cris, lying beside him, slowly opened her eyes.

"Another mission?" she asked, her voice hoarse with sleep.

"It's the DOD. It seems a Bravo operator has been accused of something. They want legal and technical support. I'll need to go to Virginia Beach."

Cris sighed, but he knew what this meant. His commitment wasn't just to SWAT or the LAPD, but to a larger mission.

"Do what needs to be done. But always text me, okay?"

"Always. Love you," he replied, kissing her forehead.

Los Angeles, 6:00 AM — Mid-Wilshire Police Station

Gustavo arrived early to personally inform his superiors. He went straight up to Captain Zoe Anderson's office, where Commander Hicks was already waiting for him.

"Good morning," Gustavo said with his usual formality, but already showing the urgency.

"Did you hear we have another federal mission coming up?" Zoe asked, already aware.

"Yes, sir, ma'am. DOD called me based on my active clearance. A DEVGRU operator has been detained, and apparently there's a sensitive issue of legal interpretation mixed with rules of engagement and chain of command."

Hicks crossed his arms.

"Do you think this will be one of those cases that becomes a movie later?"

Gustavo laughed lightly.

—"From what I know of Bravo Team... yes."

Zoe walked to the window, looking out at the sunrise.

—"You're our link to the world beyond these streets, Gustavo. Go. Represent the LAPD. And bring that knowledge back, as you always do."

—"You can count on that."

Virginia Beach, 7:15 PM — Oceana Naval Airport

As Gustavo stepped onto the tarmac, damp from the light drizzle, the air felt salty and tense. A Navy officer was waiting for him in a discreet military vehicle.

—"Officer Silva?" the sergeant driver asked.

—"Yes."

—"Welcome to the East Coast. Your transport is ready. We're heading straight to Dam Neck. Briefing with Lieutenant Commander Blackburn at 8:00 PM."

Gustavo nodded, placing his briefcase in the backseat.

Dam Neck Annex, 8:00 PM — Bravo Team Planning Room

Lieutenant Commander Eric Blackburn stood before a tactical table. Surrounding him were Jason Hayes, Ray Perry, Clay Spenser, Trent Sawyer, Brock Reynolds, and CIA analyst Mandy Ellis. The space, though technical, carried the weight of an absence: Sonny Quinn, detained until the case was resolved.

"Gentlemen... the Department of Defense sent an expert to support this case," Blackburn began.

"A military lawyer?" Clay asked suspiciously.

"More than that. An LAPD officer, SWAT veteran, DOD consultant, and TS/SCI clearance. Master of Laws from Harvard. His name is Gustavo Silva. He's already here."

The doors opened and Gustavo entered, wearing a black shirt under a light tactical jacket, cargo pants, and boots. His eyes were firm, but his posture was friendly.

"Good evening, gentlemen." — he said, observing each one. — "Pleasure. I'm here to understand what's happening with Operator Quinn and ensure the entire process remains legal, but without compromising the unit's operational interests."

Jason stood and extended his hand. A man-to-man greeting. Soldier-to-soldier.

"Jason Hayes. Bravo Team Leader. You seem like exactly the kind of help we need."

"I'll do my best. I've already read the preliminary report. There's evidence of excessive force in an engagement during a mission in the Sahel. I need to talk to all of you. Understand the context, the background... and most importantly: what wasn't mentioned in the report."

Ray commented:

"The system wants to turn operators into robots. Sonny reacted to save an ally. That's going to be difficult to explain in court."

"Not if I explain it properly," Gustavo replied firmly.

Mandy, who had been silent until then, crossed her arms and watched him closely.

"Do you really understand the dynamics of what we do out there?"

"More than you think," he said, before adding, "And I can prove it."

Dam Neck — Next Day, 8:00 AM

Gustavo spent the morning reviewing helmet footage, radio audio, and speaking with the operators individually. He asked precise questions. He understood the mission's history, the local civilian's involvement, and Sonny's reaction.

At noon, he met with the JAG (Navy Legal Corps) officer, where he presented an 18-page technical report detailing:

The proportionality of the response.

The breach of command in the radio chain.

The ambiguity of the orders received.

The JAG officer read it silently for a few minutes and then said simply:

"This changes everything."

Next Day, 5:45 PM — Hangar Bravo Team

After helping redirect the case to the Conduct Oversight Board, the mood was lighter. Sonny was now just waiting for an informal hearing, with a high chance of being released.

Jason approached Gustavo, holding two training carbines.

"Hey, lawyer... I heard you're SWAT."

"Yeah," Gustavo replied with a smile.

"Want to do some drills with Bravo? It's not often we have someone who understands our tactical and legal language."

Ray added, laughing:

"Time to see if the LAPD is up to the SEALs."

Gustavo took off his jacket, revealing his SWAT shirt.

"Then let's see what I'm made of."

Quick Training - Night CQB, Building 14

The operators set up a nighttime tactical course with limited vision. Gustavo was paired with Clay. Entering the room, Gustavo moved with precision, his technique refined. Diagonal entries, checking blind spots, perfect cover. Accurate simulated shots.

Clay whistled.

"This guy is real."

Then it was time for transition shooting. Gustavo drew his Glock as if it were part of his arm, firing with speed and control.

Jason approached.

"Okay, officer... you've earned my respect."

Gustavo laughed.

"And I've earned yours. Everything I saw here... will be used to train my team in LA."

Trent spoke for the first time:

"They're lucky to have you."

Gustavo was silent for a moment. Then he replied:

"Actually... I'm the one who's lucky to have all this. The trust. The mission. The chance to serve."

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Chapter 49 - Chapter 110-111