"Is the State ready to call its first witness?" Judge Cooper asked.
"Yes, Your Honor," Samantha announced. "The People call Detective Zachary Gerard."
Zach's stomach tightened, knowing he would be testifying in front of his father.
The court clerk approached. "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you, God?"
"I do."
"State your full name and occupation for the record."
"Zachary Alan Gerard, detective first-class, 21st Precinct, NYPD."
"You have the same last name as the defendant's attorney," the District Attorney announced. "Is Alan Gerard any relation to you?"
"Yes. Mr. Gerard is my father."
Samantha walked to the center of the room and stood before Zach. "Detective, have you discussed this case with your father?"
"No, ma'am, I have not."
She smiled and walked away, then turned to speak to Zach.
"Detective, were you the arresting officer of the defendant, Patrick Sawyer?"
"My partner and I were the arresting officers."