Legal Question in Technology Law in Iowa

False Statements via Computer/Internet

A couple (the Jones') who owns a contracting business was shot at by their neighbors. They called the police and charges are pending. Shortly after this incident they received phone calls from attorneys all around the country. Someone posed as the Jones', and emailed many business attorneys claiming that they owned 50,000 in payroll taxes. The Jones' filed a police report. One attorney did have an IP address and the internet provider is known, it is the IP of the neighbors. The police did not secure a search warrant and investigate the neighbors computer. In addition to the harrassment with a weapon, they have suffered emotional distress due to this. It is logical to assume that the neighbors did this, but without the evidence on their computer or more info from the internet provider there is no solid proof. My question is, what crime has been comitted regarding the computer use? Is this a criminal act or should it be a civil case. There is no financial loss, but a lot of emptional headaches!


Asked on 9/04/06, 2:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
David Anderson Anderson Business Law LLC

Re: False Statements via Computer/Internet

There are both criminal and civil liabilities arising out of this situation. You should have your neighbor contact me or another attorney with extensive Internet Law experience.

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Answered on 9/04/06, 6:42 pm


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