Chapter 113: Jimmy – Confronting the Corrupt Lieutenant
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
After giving statements to the police, Jimmy Cunniff and Jane Smith return to East Hampton, where Jimmy promises to hand over the burner phone. Jimmy then wakes Detective Craig Jackson, and together they begin obtaining phone logs. At 7:30 AM, Jimmy drives to the home of retired Lieutenant Paul Harrington. Using a raspy voice to mimic the deceased Anthony Licata, Jimmy recounts the phone call in which Harrington asked if the job was done. Jimmy reveals that Jane heard the exchange and that Licata had recorded other calls as an insurance policy. When Harrington tries to shut the door, Jimmy forces his way in and draws his gun. Danny Esposito arrives with a warrant and arrests Harrington, reading him his rights.
Key Events
- Jimmy and Jane give formal statements to Chief Larry Calabrese in East Hampton.
- Jimmy promises Jane he will turn over Licata’s burner phone to the police later.
- Jimmy wakes Detective Craig Jackson, and they begin working to obtain phone logs from Licata’s burners.
- At 7:30 AM, Jimmy goes to Harrington’s home, using a raspy voice to impersonate Licata during their earlier call.
- Jimmy confronts Harrington with evidence that Harrington ordered the hit on Jane and Jimmy.
- Jimmy reveals that Licata had recorded their past conversations, providing proof of the conspiracy.
- Harrington initially denies everything, then tries to close the door but is shoved inside by Jimmy.
- Jimmy holds Harrington at gunpoint while presenting the burner phone as evidence.
- Danny Esposito arrives with a warrant and handcuffs Harrington, reciting his Miranda rights.
Character Development
- Jimmy Cunniff – Displays resourcefulness and determination by using his old cop skills to gather phone logs and impersonate Licata. He balances the line between vigilante and investigator, trusting the legal process to make the arrest.
- Jane Smith – Although not present during the confrontation, her role as an “officer of the court” and witness to the phone call is crucial to the case against Harrington.
- Paul Harrington – The retired lieutenant shows arrogance and composure at first, but his mask cracks when faced with irrefutable evidence. He tries to bluff and dismiss the charges, underestimating Jimmy’s preparation.
- Danny Esposito – Arrives at the decisive moment, asserting his authority as a current law enforcement officer and making the lawful arrest that Jimmy cannot.
- Craig Jackson – Emerges as a reliable ally, willing to wake people up and work odd hours to help Jimmy, mirroring the loyalty of Mickey Dunne.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Justice vs. Vengeance – Jimmy pursues justice by collecting evidence and letting a uniformed officer make the arrest, rather than taking matters entirely into his own hands.
- Corruption in Law Enforcement – Harrington, a former high-ranking detective, is revealed as the mastermind behind the attack, showing how power can be abused even within the system.
- Loyalty and Partnership – Jane’s steadfastness and Jackson’s dedication underscore the importance of trustworthy allies.
- Technology as Evidence – The burner phone and recorded calls serve as modern-day tools that expose a criminal conspiracy, emphasizing the role of digital footprints.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter delivers a major turning point by exposing the true orchestrator of the attack on Jane and Jimmy. The suspense built over previous chapters pays off with a direct confrontation and a formal arrest. It also reinforces Jimmy’s growth from a retired cop to a sharp investigator who can work within and around the law. Harrington’s capture clears the way for the final act of the story, providing closure to one of the central conflicts.
Study Questions and Answers
1. What evidence does Jimmy use to confront Harrington?
Jimmy uses the recorded phone call from Licata’s burner phone, in which Harrington asked “Is it done?” and admitted he sent Licata to kill them. He also reveals that Licata had saved other recorded conversations as an insurance policy, which the police found on his laptop.
2. How does Harrington react to the accusation?
Harrington initially denies everything, claiming Jimmy only has “what you think you have.” He tries to shut the door, then shrugs off the evidence, telling Jimmy he cannot arrest him because he is no longer a cop. His bravado collapses when Danny Esposito arrives with a warrant.
3. Why does Jimmy wait until morning to confront Harrington?
Jimmy waits to gather the phone logs and build a solid case. He also wants to act before news of the shooting spreads, ensuring he can catch Harrington off guard. The early-morning visit takes advantage of Harrington’s expectation that he would be sleeping late.