2.13.2006

busted


"What in the world are you doing?" I asked incredulously.
We had just pulled away from the pink resort, en route for a quick cup of coffee before the next group of checkins. The place was deserted, but for the Christmas tree proudly standing sentinel on the white trash patio.
As we drove towards Palm Canyon, a white male slunk out from between the hedges surrounding an empty lot.
"What's that guy doing?" asked the motelier. "I don't like his looks. I think I'll drive around the block and come back by the place."
He looked okay to me. Khaki shorts, plaid shirt, shaved head. About like every other young white male in this 47 percent gay male town.
But when we pulled up outside the white trash patio, the previously locked gate was ajar and the perp was inside the gate, holding a can of pop and a bottle of water.
"I was just getting some water," he said. "Do you want me to put it back?"
"Yes," said the motelier. "I sure do."
On instinct, I aimed the camera at him.
The speed with which he covered his face indicated to me that he was not unbknown to the police.
Why I can't stop: The goddam lag in both my reflexes and my camera.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Looks like he was probably just out to see if anything interesting made itself available. Hard to say. Doesn't look too down and out.

I forgot what you told me...did he scamper off, once shot? Did he offer to introduce himself?

Anonymous said...

this is not a tiny innocent, wandering the hills in peace. i find the plaid most suspicious. if i were there, i'd slap him on the head with my flippers. recommend you do same if you see him again.

Anonymous said...

When are you coming home? It's Mexico next, yes? How long will you be there? How's your cold? This is silly. I should just email you.

Anonymous said...

who knew this vacation would be better than watching america's most wanted, although the fast photo of the perp reminded me more of "Cops"...I can hear it now you and the motelier driving sunglasses on tuned to the police scanner....and in the background we hear ...Bad Boys Bad Boys what ya gonna do till they come for you bad boys bad boys.... for godsake be careful and keep that pistol under your pillow.

Anonymous said...

and sometimes you will need to use that gun under your pillow, the perp might have been there to steal the frying pan or tv.