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Should Nelson promise the parents that they'd catch the person who did this?

No, he shouldn't have said this. I'd be surprised if police detectives are allowed to say such things these days. Don't promise what you may not be able to deliver.

Once again I agree don't say when you can't guarantee delivering it.

I think he should have said "we'll do everything possible" or something similar.

Same here.

Shouldn't promise but was trying to give them comfort. He probably should have phrased it differently.

That seems to be what most police say...trying to encourage the next of kin to not give up hope. I think most people know in their own hearts that it's a very slim chance anyone will be caught depending of course on the circumstances.

I agree with you all and I doubt Nelson made promises in other instances (I can't recall any in prior books). I think Nelson broke with tradition because this case comes a bit too close to home for him--the victim looks so much like his daughter (and Michelle). I don't think he'll rest easy until the killer is in custody.

>8 bluebird_: You're probably right, Bluebird...and Harry hates to not be able to solve a case.