The group carried a large cardboard box, and on top sat a tablet showing the restaurant’s security feed. Behind it walked the owner, Mr. Castellano, a calm man in an apron. “Ma’am,” he said, “we have recorded your table from three angles.” The mother’s phone slipped in her hand. Then he lifted the box lid and set a thick folder on the table, right where her baby had been lying.

“What is that?” she snapped, but her voice shook. Mr. Castellano opened the folder. Inside were printed photos of the table, a health department notice, and a bill with her name at the top. “You may keep filming,” he said evenly. “In fact, please do. The county inspector is standing right behind you.” The woman turned slowly. A man in a gray jacket was holding out his badge.