Madelyn Johnson's office felt stuffy, and the tense atmosphere only added to the discomfort. Vittorio Amorielle and Ellis Smith sat there, anxious, as they awaited information about Ellis's daughter, Donna, who had been abducted from school.

Madelyn took a deep breath before continuing her explanation. Her eyes displayed genuine concern for the situation involving young Donna.

“I understand how distressing this must be for you,” Madelyn began, “But there's something you ...