[MDPinUSA]

One of the major differences between RAG and some other boards is that RAG does not tolerate personal character assination, flaming, etc.

However, certain types of personalities that continually exhibit behavior that is generally agreed to be: questionable, dastardly, imoral and/or illegal continue until their actions have reached the saturation point.

I know a few of the personalities that have posted on this thread as well as the individual whose possible actions have created this situation.

Something occured where the US Govt. required Eric to return live stock (taken legally or illegally. Taken according to a signed US Govt. permit or in violation of the permit.) If the US Govt. is satisficed that any possible past infractions have been forgiven.... Then the US Govt. can put it past them. -- If not, like a tax audit, it is enevitable the spaghetti will hit the fan... when you least expect it.

If there is a formal US Govt. inquiry, all this will become public knowledge. It could be financially devistating for all directly involved with any illegal activity. It would destroy the credibility of those found guilty of charges brought forward.

The individual in question apparantly has not replied to many inquiries on this and other boards. Turning ones back on a environmentally sensitive issue will not allow the topic to be forgotten.

Hiding from this or other situations can result in a loss of credibility. It is for the benefit of all concerned that Eric's position be known.

E.g. For the benefit of Eric as well as all marine aquarium keepers.

It is highly possible that this matter (as well as some past and present actions of those that have posted and/or choose to be involved with this situation) is just the tip of the iceberg.

I hope Eric will choose to use RAG as a platform to openly and honestly discuss these many concerns.

There are too many "ifs". The reality is:

If someone filled out US Govt. documents and was not understanding what was required of them, the US Govt. would make it perfectly clear what is required. If that someone still did not understand what they were signing, the US Govt. would not allow them access via permits.

If someone filled out US Govt. documents and altered the direction of their endevours (outside of what was legally agreed upon), then they are dead wrong.

If someone took over size corals, put them up for sale to the public at large, got caught, was required to return the corals (and did so only after numerous requests/demands), killed off some of the corals while in their custody and control, then replaced with corals from another ocean (that is wrong, morally corrupt and highly illegal).

If someone filled out US Govt. documents, thus agreeing to abide by estalbished rules and regulations that protect our natural resources... then turned around and offered these organisms up for sale... That person should be held accountable. Both legally and financially.

"If" any or all of this is true or untrue, Eric should step up and explain what transpired. This would clear up any past, current or future confusion and concerns.

I have met Eric, seen his presentations and read much of his material. I am not surprised that live stock died in his hands. I believe he is better qualifed at taking underwater photos vs. captive live stock management.

I am surprised that he got caught up in this situation. Again, perhaps he will step up and clear the air.

I am not surprised that Steven Pro once again took a position to defend Eric. Those that have an understanding of the underbelly of the hobby side of this industry realize Steven has a vested interest in Eric's future.

Cheers.