‘Let’s catch him first and let the experts decide that, shall we?’ There was a momentary pause. ‘Plus, there’s a third thing that you have to do – and that is keep this out of the papers. At least until we gather more evidence. We don’t want the investigation hindered by the press.’

‘Total blackout?’

‘Total,’ confirmed Mitch.

‘What do I tell my townspeople?’

‘Nothing, Sergeant Jenkins. Informing them only presents another opportunity for a leak. Five minutes and it’ll be all over Twitter and Facebook. That’s how things work these days. Instant access to instant news. You might not realize that down there. And reports that you let one of the main suspects go missing would not look good for you, Sergeant.’

This Chandler understood, but not warning his friends and family that a potential serial killer was wandering the streets wasn’t particularly agreeable either.

‘I think I should tell them.’

‘I insist you don’t, Sergeant Jenkins.’

‘Chandler, Mitch – it’s Chandler. You know that.’

There was a slight pause. ‘If you put the word out, Sergeant Jenkins, it will only make matters worse. It may start a panic that could assist our suspect’s escape. Plus, the consequences of disobeying a direct order are severe, as you know. Now I will be there very soon so—’

‘You’re more than four hundred and fifty kilometres away. You—’

‘Three hours,’ said Mitch in response. ‘I’ll be leaving promptly, so, Sergeant Jenkins, I would appreciate it if you made space at the station for myself and my team and have some form of refreshment ready.’

Inspector Andrews paused.

‘And, Sergeant Jenkins . . . try and not to make the situation any worse in the meantime.’

There was a click and then the dial tone rang out loudly, as if Mitch had dropped the mic after a final, unbeatable insult.

There was a momentary silence in the room – as if in remembrance of Chandler’s dignity. Seeking to redress the balance somewhat, he spoke to his troops. The message wasn’t positive but it was honest.

‘Things are about to get nasty.’

There were nods from the group huddled around the table but it was Nick who was the first to speak up.

‘I dunno what went on between the two of you, Sarge, but that bloke’s an arsehole.’

Tanya chimed in. ‘An arrogant arsehole.’

It was Chandler’s turn to nod. ‘I’d keep those opinions to yourself for now. Let’s get to work.’

Despite the crushing feeling of being disrespected in front of his employees, Chandler set about following Mitch’s instructions.

‘Tanya, take 142 and the highway until State get in position. Luka, you’re on Daly’s, in case he heads south rather than north. I’ll send Jim to Stockman’s and we’ll have to hope that’s enough. And be careful out there. We don’t know what he’s capable of.’