Of course it was a 'plot device'!!! It was strictly for the audience's benefit...similar to Neri suddenly appearing to Tom in the doorway after murdering Geary's prostitute.
But since realistically, the line would not have been spoken whether Roth wanted Frankie dead or not...it remains a flaw, no matter HOW you slice it.
Apple
A wise and frugal government, which shall leave men free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned - this is the sum of good government.
- THOMAS JEFFERSON
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