“The police department is reviewing the event,” she said. “The brief clip circulated online is not the only recording known to investigators. I can’t discuss the active case, and the association shouldn’t treat a social-media edit as an official finding.”
Alan nodded. “Understood.”
Richard’s attorney opened his mouth, then apparently decided not to question the officer.
Andrea stood.
“Before the board votes on sanctions,” she said, “I want to submit the complete recorded footage from an original source, which we have permission to present.”
A few people leaned forward.
Richard turned sharply toward Eli, sitting in the last row.
Eli was pale. But he nodded.
Andrea plugged a laptop into the projector.
On the screen, Trent approached Joseph smiling. The water bottle struck. Joseph declined to fight. Trent threatened him. Khloe moved toward Marla. The punches came. Joseph steadied Trent away from the table and released him.
When the recording ended, nobody spoke.
Richard stood halfway out of his chair.
“That material should not have been shared,” he said. “It’s part of an ongoing police matter.”
Eli rose before Andrea could answer.
“It’s my video,” he said. “I filmed it. I gave permission.”
Richard glared at him.
“Young man, sit down.”
“No,” Eli replied. “I’m tired of sitting down.”
He walked toward the microphone, shoulders shaking.
“I filmed it because Trent told me there would be a challenge. His dad wanted something for social media. Afterward I was told to start the public edit where Mr. Miller grabbed Trent. That was the short video people saw.”
Richard’s attorney interrupted. “Who told you to edit it that way?”
Eli looked at Richard.
“Mr. Harrington’s consultant sent me the instructions.”
Alan leaned forward. “Do you have those instructions?”
“Yes, sir.”
Eli handed Andrea a printed message and its original electronic copy. Andrea submitted it for the board to review.
Richard’s jaw tightened. He was still searching for a way to turn the moment back toward Joseph.
Then Marianne stood.
“I have something the board needs to see,” she said.
Richard turned toward his wife. For the first time all evening, he looked genuinely uncertain.
