Hey, his actions cost the university $140,000 (at least part of the expense went towards the notification of those whose data was potentially exposed - per CA state law http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/metro/20060421-9999-1m21hacker.html) and the loss of the system for 10 days.

What he did was wrong. There are no two ways to slice it. The system was not his to penetrate.

Also, stop with the analogies already. All they do is cloud the issue. Talk computers, networks and law. If you don't like the law then work to change it, but I prefer all unauthorized penetrations into computer systems to be illegal.

I'm not saying he's on the same level of people who are clearly out doing this profit. I understand the difference between what he did and what others are doing. Regardless, that does not make what he did legal or right.

If he's smart he'll plead out on a reduced charge and probation.

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