They had no proof.

He knew that they knew he had done it but they didn't have any
proof. It was a huge distinction and it was the difference between him keeping his
freedom or being locked away for decades. They continued to question him, probing
him for information that they could use against him or find the proof they needed
to put him away. He smiled and continued to block their every inquiry by feigning
his innocence for a crime they all knew he committed.

The light was out on the front porch of the house. This was strange. Judy couldn't
remember a time when she had ever seen it out. She hopped out of her car and walked
to the door. It was slightly ajar and she knew this meant something terrible. She
gently pushed the door open and hall her fears were realized. "Surprise! Happy
Birthday!" everyone shouted.