The driver complied immediately. “Sir, did I do something wrong. I was following traffic.”
Lowell scoffed. “You were speeding. The fine is five hundred dollars. Pay now.”
The driver’s voice trembled. “Sir, I was not speeding. I do not have that kind of money.”
Lowell leaned closer, his tone threatening. “Do not argue. Show me your license and registration.”
The documents were handed over and checked. Everything was in order.
Lowell tossed them back. “Paperwork is fine. You still pay the fine. Three hundred in cash or your taxi gets impounded.”
Alicia watched every movement, every word, committing them to memory. She saw how Lowell stepped into the driver’s space, how his voice grew louder.
“Please,” the driver said desperately. “I have only earned fifty today. I have children at home.”
Lowell grabbed him by the collar and shoved him. “If you do not have money, you should not be driving.”
That was when Alicia opened the taxi door and stepped out.
She positioned herself beside the driver and faced the officer. “You have no legal reason to detain him. He broke no traffic law, and you just assaulted him.”
Lowell turned, startled by her calm confidence. “Mind your business. Get back in the car.”