The offense doesn't appear to fit the definition of embezzlement anyway. Maloney and other prosecutors serve, in effect, as the first judges in many cases, ruling whether there is enough evidence for cases to move forward. A methodical lawyer with a professorial demeanor, Maloney subjects officers to polite but rigorous questioning, repeatedly sending them back for more statements, more evidence, more documentation. The word has gotten around. But by midmorning, there's no time for banter.
Several officers wait their turn.
Maloney must quickly sort out the key evidence in each case, then decide how to handle it. The day becomes a blur of facts and allegations. A woman bought items from a drugstore with savings withdrawal slips that look like checks. Maloney tells the officer to bring back more evidence. Young men are spotted breaking a van window.