IANAL, but I have been advised by lawyers in highly similar situations.
Publicly accusing someone of either criminal fraud and/or academic
fraud is serious business, and it is certainly something that could
get you prosecuted for criminal libel, as the accusation will likely
have the effect of seriously damaging the accused's reputation. You
would basically have to prove in court that your accusations were in
fact true.
On Aug 17, 2007, at 4:08 PM, James Stroud wrote:
It seems that a public discussion with points and counterpoints
presented openly and fairly is in complete adherence to the ideals
of due process. Since this discussion is not deciding the criminal
fate of any individual, it does not seem necessary to defer it to
any political government. Also, were any criminal charges ever
brought forth, one might think an innocent defendent would
appreciate the benefit of the world's experts pondering the facts
in an open forum.
James
William Scott wrote:
But I agree, it is important to keep in mind that the proper venue
for determining guilt or innocence in the case of fraud is the
court system.
Until fairly recently, the idea of presumed innocence and the
right to cross-examine accusers and witnesses has been considered
fundamental to civil society.
The case certainly sounds compelling, but this is all the more
reason to adhere to these ideals.
--
James Stroud
UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics
Box 951570
Los Angeles, CA 90095
http://www.jamesstroud.com/
