Heritage Auction problem

[slidekellyslide]

Originally Posted by thekingofclout

"Simon’s account, as well as several others’, was suspended for allegedly working in conjunction with a man known to the law enforcement world (and on this board and http://whitebetsy.wordpress.com/) as “The Cooperstown Forger.”

That's their words Dan, NOT mine.

It would be great if one of our resident attorneys could chime in regarding the use of the word "allegedly" and let us know just how much protection that offers the user in a situation like this?

"Allegedly" is a term used by news outfits to protect themselves from lawsuits. It's sleazy to drop that word here while making an accusation against someone. Either stand behind your accusation or don't make it. Is Heritage auctions in the business of dropping bidders from their rolls for "alleged" activity?

[Splinte1941]

Originally Posted by slidekellyslide

"Allegedly" is a term used by news outfits to protect themselves from lawsuits. It's sleazy to drop that word here while making an accusation against someone. Either stand behind your accusation or don't make it. Is Heritage auctions in the business of dropping bidders from their rolls for "alleged" activity?

And that children is what is referred to in common sense circles as BINGO.

[RichardSimon]

It was speculated to me a few days ago, by a hobbyist, allegedly (that word again) who the Cooperstown Forger might be. He did say there was no proof at all, just lots of speculation.
If that hobbyist is correct then I do know that person. But "allegedly working in conjunction" with him? That cleverly implies that I am working with him in forging activities, without Jonathan having to say that I am forging with him. That is probably near slander and very carefully couched in terms that can give them deniability. Nice work, Jonathan, be proud of yourself for a baseless near slander.
I would think and hope that nobody on this board would believe that I would work in conjunction with a forger in forging activities.
I have fought forgers for 20 years and many know that.

[RichardSimon]

Originally Posted by slidekellyslide

"Allegedly" is a term used by news outfits to protect themselves from lawsuits. It's sleazy to drop that word here while making an accusation against someone. Either stand behind your accusation or don't make it. Is Heritage auctions in the business of dropping bidders from their rolls for "alleged" activity?

Obviously they are.