Service weapon drawn, Ethan circled around the dilapidated house with the sagging roofline. Light flickered behind the blinds in what was probably the living room. Somebody was watching TV. A deputy closed in from the opposite direction. If Eugene Willig was home, there was a good chance he’d bolt out the back when Judd and another deputy knocked on the front door.
Voice low, Ethan radioed Judd. “We’re in position.”
“Get ready for some action.”
A minute later, a loud pounding could be heard from the front of the house. “Police! We have a warrant. Open up!”
Less than fifteen seconds later, the back door opened and a skinny figure darted into the night.
“Freeze! Sheriff’s Department!” At the deputy’s shout, the man careened toward Ethan.
Ethan bolted to intercept him, dropping his shou
