Where do you want to begin, Commander Dais?" asked the Chief of Staff.
To start off, I think that we should start with the basics. It has been
admitted that Mr. Allso brought a dismembered hand aboard the station.
While no charges are being brought against him in a Federation court...",
Dais paused to take a lengthy breath. While he wanted to be diplomatic, he
wanted to make it clear that he was not going to let the Bajorans walk all
over them. "... it is of great concern, both from a Security and a health
standpoint, to us. Since it is this hand that is at the core of our
concerns, I would like to start by asking where the hand is at this moment?"
Dais' eyebrows raised as he looked around the table. While he may not have
been too forceful, he was sure that his forthright inquest would be a
surprise. It also set up Mr. Garibaldi for a quick follow up to their
response if they prove to be resistant, which the Trill fully expected.
They were indeed taken aback not only by the boldness of the statement, but
also by the bluntness of it. While not rude, it was the equivilant of a cup
being droped.
They looked at each other oh so briefly before an answer came.
The Chief of Security started, "Let's just get something straight. This is
the Bajoran Embassy, and is sovereign territory under the Bajoran
Government. As this is interview is a courtesy to Starfleet, you should
display a bit more tact and not make wild accusations."
The Chief of Staff cut in. He was far more diplomatic in tone and message.
"Before we get too far down this road that will lead us nowhere. We are not
here to point fingers or to make accusations. Now, you came to us with
information about an illegal search of our diplomatic courier, Mr. Allso.
The fact that you conducted an illegal search of a someone with diplomatic
immunity is an issue that we are ignoring for a moment, but will revisit it
if need be." The implied threat was obvious.
"Now, our initial interview with Mr. Allso revealed nothing suspicious or
out of the ordinary. However, based on your information, I had our security
search the work space and quarters of Mr. Allso. Those searches turned up
nothing." Chief of Staff Rivik continued.
This was a bit too polite for Garibaldi to jump in, so he looked over at
Dais to let him know he should continue.
"MR. Relik, you misunderstand my inquest. I am not accusing anyone of
anything. I am just trying to clear the air. I am just stating the facts
that everyone knows when I bring up the subject of the hand. No accusations
were made." Dais paused once more. "My primary concern is for the safety
of the station and the people aboard it. The hand could pose a danger;
past, present, or future; to both. Being able to examine the hand would be
helpful in preventing possible infections and other similar dangers. Since
it is clear to everyone here that Mr. Allso had possession of the hand at
his arrival on the station, it is only logical that he either still has it,
disposed of it, or know where it went when it left his possession."
"It is like this Commander Dais. All we have is your word that this severed hand
exists. Our preliminary investigation does not support your statements." the Chief of
Staff replied.
Joe decided to add his pennies worth at that point.
"Mr. Relik, let me be as diplomatic as I am capable of being. We have scans of the
hand being on the person of your courier. This evidence, no matter how it was
obtained, is still evidence until a judge says otherwise. That is a procedural if not
legal fact. Furthermore, as a member of the Federation you are subject to the laws of
the Federation..."
Rivik interrupted, "You forget, Lt.Commander Garibaldi, that we enjoy diplomatic
immunity." his tone being more than somewhat snide.
Garibaldi replied in kind, only to a more arrogant and headstrong tone, "Your
immunity is to Earth law, not Federation Law, which the charges will be filed under
Federation Law. Furthermore, immunity is not absolute. High crimes or serious crimes
are excluded. Crimes such as terrorism, smuggling, and murder." emphasis on the last
bit.
"We turned the investigation over to you in the spirit of inter-member relations,
however, we can just as easily turn it over to the Federation Bureau of Investigation.
Your cooperation is not only appreciated, but is required.
To help ensure your cooperation, I have this for you." he added handing over a
PADD.
Taking the PADD Rivik asked, "What is this?"
"It is a material witness order. Mr. Allso is forbidden to leave the solar system,
and his whereabouts are to be reported to the Court. It is reccommended that Mr.
Allso remain on Spacedock if not within the Embassy. Failure to comply with the order
will result in furhter legal action."
It was obvious that this was an unexpected move, and it was not taken well. Relik
was beside himself in disbelief. The Chief of Staff, Rivik, was simply dumb-founded.
Allso, was also in shock...
{reaction}
