I wonder if it was something similar that caused the attack on the deputy: something done that was perceived as a personal offense? If it's true (I don't know where I heard or read it) that Al wanted a divorce, and then the job offer was rescinded, seems to me those are major blows to her fragile ego. Then she loses it with Gannon, then commits an unthinkable act, then endures one failed lie after another, then is arrested... I'd suspect she a bit of a bomb ready to explode at the slightest touch....