“For the benefit of the tape, Tom, my name is DCI Jack Culverhouse and this is my colleague, DS Wendy Knight. Tom, I’ll cut straight to the chase. We’d like to speak with you about a young lady called Ella Barrington. We believe you may have known her. For the benefit of the tape, I am now showing the suspect a photograph of Ella Barrington.” “Suspect? You didn’t say nothing about me being no suspect!” Wendy interjected, “It’s just police terminology, Tom. For the benefit of the tape, you know. Don’t worry – you’re not under arrest.” Culverhouse shot a thankful smile at Wendy. “Terminology, exactly. Tom, do you recognise this woman?” Tom shuffled uncomfortably. “No, I’ve never seen her before.” “Are you sure?” “I told you. I’ve never seen her before.” Culverhouse sat in silence for a moment, wistfully planning his next move. “Tom, do you recognise this woman? For the benefit of the tape, I am now showing the sus—Mr Connors a photograph of Maria Preston.”
