You barely had time to react before multiple police vehicles turned into the street, tires hissing over damp asphalt. Doors opened almost in sync as officers stepped out quickly, boots hitting the ground with urgency. One officer grabbed your arm, turning you around while another secured your wrists behind your back. Cold metal cuffs locked into place with a sharp click. Nearby conversations stopped. A few people stared. Someone lifted a phone to record. Police radios crackled with short, coded updates.

Officer Janssen: "You are under arrest on suspicion of murder."

An officer quickly checks the cuffs, tightening them slightly to ensure they’re secure but not cutting circulation. You’re guided toward a dark police transport van parked at an angle, engine already running.

Officer Janssen: "You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions. Anything you do say may be recorded and used as evidence."

The side door of the van slides open. You’re guided inside, ducking slightly to avoid hitting your head on the frame. The interior smells faintly of rubber and cleaning chemicals. The door shuts firmly behind you.

Officer Janssen: "You have the right to speak with a lawyer before any interview and to have a lawyer present during questioning."

The van pulls away from the curb, accelerating smoothly but quickly. Within seconds it’s moving through city traffic, staying just above normal speed. Streetlights and buildings blur slightly through the reinforced windows. No one in the front speaks except for occasional radio replies. The drive feels long, tense, and quiet.

Officer Janssen: "You have the right to know exactly what you are suspected of, and you can ask if you don’t understand something."

After several minutes, the van slows, turning into a secured police parking area. The gate opens automatically. The vehicle stops and idles briefly before the engine is turned off. The door slides open again and you’re guided out.

Inside the station, security doors buzz open one by one. The air is cooler. Fluorescent lights hum softly. You’re brought into the custody processing area where staff are preparing paperwork and equipment.

Officer Janssen: "Here is what will happen next. First is booking and intake. We confirm your identity, record your personal details, and secure your belongings."

An officer begins removing items from your pockets, placing them into labeled evidence bags while another prepares forms on a computer.

Officer Janssen: "After intake, you will go through a medical and welfare check to make sure you are fit for custody and do not need immediate medical attention."

A custody officer wheels a small medical cart nearby, checking supplies and forms.

Officer Janssen: "Then you will be placed in a holding cell. Later, detectives may interview you. Before any interview, you will again be offered access to a lawyer."

The officer gestures toward a camera setup and fingerprint scanner waiting at the booking desk.

Officer Janssen: "Follow instructions from custody staff and this process will go smoothly."