The recording was played for the court.

Andrew’s voice filled the room.

It was clear and arrogant.

“You play by my rules, Captain, or your family is on the next bus out of Texas with nothing,” the voice said.

Claire buried her face in her hands.

She began to sob quietly.

My mother reached over and put her arm around her.

My father did not move.

He stared at the back of Andrew’s head.

The expression on his face was one of deep shock.

The man he had praised for years was being exposed in front of everyone.

The trial lasted four days.

Each day was a slow march through Andrew’s greed.

He did not take the stand in his own defense.

On Thursday afternoon, the panel of officers retired to deliberate.

It took them less than two hours.

The courtroom bell rang three times to signal they had reached a decision.

We all took our places.

The silence was absolute.

“All rise,” the bailiff called out.

Colonel Arispe entered and took his seat.

The panel president, a gray-haired Colonel, stood up.