Wow, Nita, that was one good read! And it could easily be close to the truth. I didn't realize that PVDS had invested 15 years in trying to become a judge.... Good googa mooga! The man was probably freaking out when he found out his life, as planned, had gone down the toilet by flunking out. And as you so intuitively pointed out, his bread winner status had come to an end & he was probably desperate for $$$$$$'s.
He obviously hasn't had time to deal with it or he wouldn't have misled Greta during their interview the other day. Of course, I guess that's not exactly something a person would be eager to tell the world on TV, is it? I almost feel sorry for him. (I said "almost." No flames, people!)
You also said, "This whole ordeal may be one heck of a circle jerk, made to look as if an honest attempt to get to the truth has been accomplished."
It all depends on how corrupt their police chief is, whoever that is. If he's on the take (or even complicit with criminal activity of some type himself), then they'll have to find a "fall guy" or hope they can wait out Natalee's Mom and Greta. :)