And if Victoria had not carried federal
identification in her pocket, they might have taken her to the station and continued the intimidation.
The realization made Victoria’s hands tremble.
Not because she was afraid for herself.
But because she knew what could happen to an ordinary person who did not have the ability to fight back.
Someone without legal knowledge.
Someone without a supervisor.
Someone who could not afford an attorney.
Someone who might have believed the officers had the right to do whatever they wanted.
That thought stayed with her.
A month later, federal prosecutors announced charges against several individuals connected to Northstar Highway Services.
The allegations included wire fraud, conspiracy, obstruction of justice, and misuse of public funds.
The county suspended multiple employees pending further investigation.
