[MrEdd]

You are missing one of the central facts of the case.
Once you take this into account, not only will the wording make perfect sense, you will be embarrassed that you ever thought it was odd.

This happened in Chicago. They have to make sure the dismemberment was not carried out by a left wing politician or a police officer before it will be even remotely possible to determine whether a crime was committed.

Now, don't you feel silly?

[basil]

Actually, no—do you?