Chapter 14 - The Federal Trap Closes
Before Deborah’s lawyer could object, two heavy double doors at the back of the courtroom burst open.
Four agents wearing dark suits and badges from the Internal Revenue Service and the Department of Justice marched down the center aisle. The lead agent stepped up to the bench, handing the judge a sealed federal warrant.
"Your Honor," the federal agent announced loudly, his voice cutting through the silent room like a thunderclap. "We are seizing control of this hearing. As of 6:00 AM today, a federal grand jury in the Southern District has handed down a 14-count indictment against Deborah, Richard, and Travis Montgomery for Federal Bank Fraud, Wire Fraud, and Interstate Money Laundering."
Deborah’s jaw dropped. "What?! This is a mistake! My husband is an accountant!"
"Your husband is a felon, ma'am," the federal agent replied coldly. "The $25 million you attempted to claim from Miss Vance's marital trust was cross-referenced with offshore accounts tied to the pension fraud ring led by Richard Montgomery. By filing today's motion, you legally attempted to transfer stolen federal property."
Richard collapsed back into his leather chair, clutching his chest as all the color drained from his face. "No... no, please..."
"In addition," the agent continued, turning his icy gaze toward Chloe, who was sitting in the gallery wearing expensive designer clothes purchased with stolen money, "Chloe Montgomery has been named as an unindicted co-conspirator for knowingly receiving and converting stolen assets."
Two female officers immediately approached Chloe in the gallery, pulling her arms behind her back and snapping handcuffs onto her wrists right in front of the flashing press cameras. Chloe burst into hysterical shrieks, kicking and screaming as she was dragged out of the gallery.
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"Mom! Dad! Do something! Help me!" Chloe screamed, her voice echoing down the corridors.
Deborah scrambled toward the railing, but federal marshals forcefully slammed her back into her chair. The trap had closed completely; in their blind pursuit of my fortune, they had dragged their entire bloodline into federal destruction.
