The entire atmosphere in the courtroom shifted dramatically.

Sophia Mitchell, who had been radiating confidence moments before, now showed clear signs of anxiety.

Victoria Stuart maintained her composed exterior, but her knuckles turned white as she clenched her fists tightly.

Elise Scott proved far more clever than Victoria had anticipated.

When Victoria orchestrated this scheme, she never imagined Elise could produce concrete evidence placing her elsewhere during the bank transaction.

"Your Honor, I request permission to present evidence demonstrating my client's whereabouts on the day in question," Samantha stated firmly.

"Permission granted." Samantha retrieved a USB drive, connected it to the court's computer system, and played surveillance footage.

She explained, "The account was allegedly opened at Crestwood Central Bank on September 15th at 10:00 AM. During that exact timeframe, my client was present at Stellar Group's corporate headquarters, engaged in back-to-back executive meetings. This video documentation confirms her location throughout that morning. I've accelerated the playback fourfold to conserve the court's valuable time."

Every eye in the courtroom remained fixed on the screen as the footage played.

This visual evidence effectively dismantled the prosecution's claim that the bank account belonged to Elise.

"Based on this evidence," Samantha declared as she stopped the video, "I have compelling reason to believe my client has been deliberately framed."

"Objection!" Victor Morgan rose abruptly.

"Even if the account holder wasn't physically present at the bank, the possibility remains that bank staff could have been bribed to process the transaction privately. If Elise Scott could corrupt Henry Carter, what prevents her from doing the same with banking personnel? This video alone doesn't conclusively prove the account isn't hers."

Victor's argument successfully reintroduced doubt about Elise's innocence.

Samantha remained unshaken, as if she had anticipated this very objection. She addressed Judge Harrison, "Your Honor, may I question the witness Helen Williams further?"

"Proceed."

Samantha turned her attention to Helen. "You testified that my client directly instructed you to file fraudulent tax returns and bribe Henry Carter, correct?"

"What compensation did she offer you for committing these illegal acts?"

"She's my superior. I had to follow orders to maintain my position at the company," Helen responded, her voice trembling slightly.

"So my client provided no tangible benefits for your cooperation?" Samantha pressed.

"None whatsoever."

"Then would you care to explain the multiple substantial deposits into your personal account over the past month?"

Samantha produced bank statements and placed them before Helen.

Helen stared at the transaction records, panic flashing across her features. She stammered incoherently, unable to form a coherent response.

"Your account shows not only numerous deposits but also consistent transfers to Crestwood's largest casino establishment. You've accumulated significant gambling debts, haven't you?!"

"That... that's personal information unrelated to this case. I decline to answer." Helen attempted to regain composure.

"On the contrary, it's completely relevant! Your gambling addiction left you drowning in debt, fearing for your family's safety. Someone exploited your desperation, offering to clear your debts in exchange for framing my client!"

Samantha delivered this conclusion with powerful conviction, her voice ringing with authority across the courtroom.