CHAPTER FIFTY-NINE
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Det. Miller had pulled himself together, at least for now, he worked out a search map. Two-man teams would check their assigned areas for Beau Camp. If found, they were not to approach him until they radioed and waited for back-up officers to arrive; he gave stern orders to that effect, anyone disobeying would be placed on immediate suspension without pay.
Miller assigned Officer Hendrix and Det. Fairchild to check throughout the main downtown area. It would be a good opportunity for them to get used to working together he felt. They would not be happy with his decision, but would comply.
Splitting the rest of the city in half, he sent one team of officers to cover the west and north areas, and the other team to cover the south and east areas; since manpower was severely limited. The third and last team would check outside the city limits, checking with ranchers and farmers. He would remain at the police station with Buddy to await any news.
Not taking any chances, Miller had all teams take extra cartridges for their .38 caliber Smith and Wesson model 64 revolvers; plus, each team was to have one 12-guage pump shotgun with them. If Beau Camp put up any fight at all, he told his teams not to take any chances—shoot to kill was his order; it was time to regain control.
Many townsfolk were scared; locking their doors, afraid now to be out after dark. Citizens now feared strangers, and even some were now watching what their neighbors were doing.
Paranoia was setting in and Miller felt it had to be stopped before innocent people started taking the law into their own hands; for that would only lead to utter lawlessness and chaos. That he could not, and would not tolerate.
Some officers were very surprised at his command, for most had never even drawn their revolvers in the line of duty before, but now, shoot to kill? Most of the officers were unsure if they could do that. Writing parking and speeding tickets was all they had ever handled; yet, if Det. Miller, who they all held in high regard, so ordered it, then it was indeed an order that must be obeyed.