blondie made a good observation and she could very well be correct. Yet my experience tells me this guy is going to be out as soon as he can get out. It is rare when an elder agrees with what you said and even shares stuff that would horrify "Mother" if "Mother" knew he said that.
I'm also glad you kept cautious about the whole thing. That was the smart thing to do. Cops can lie to you and get away with it. Elders can lie to you and get away with it.
I just have a hunch this guy is the real deal based upon what you said.
Please let us know how it plays out for him and you when it finally plays out.
Good luck. (Yeah. I can say "Good Luck" and get away with it. I'm not in a religious prison anymore!)
Farkel