A scheme with the Mexican mafia has been uncovered, the cars have been returned to their owners, and I’ll even receive a bonus for it. Life as a car-theft detective in Los Angeles in 1989 turned out not to be so bad—if you ignore the pay, the trailer in Carson, and the fact that I’m still driving a "Chevette." And besides, Los Angeles is a city that doesn’t let you get bored. Especially if you really need a big, loud case in order to finally earn a promotion.