Problem 10.5 Jamahl and Nigel are college freshmen who run a computer bulletin
board system. They decide to hack into the computer system of the local
telephone company. They enter the system without being asked for a pass-
word. While looking through computer files, Jamahl finds a confidential
memo written by the company president admitting that the telephone rates
are too high. Jamahl copies the file and posts it on the bulletin board for
users to read. To get even with the telephone company, Nigel inserts a
worm to slow its computer system down and sends the company president
the message "You are a crook." However, because of a mistake Nigel made
in creating the worm, the system crashes, and telephone service is out for
eight hours. Many office buildings and government services are disrupted.
The police chief shuts down Jamahl and Nigel's bulletin board, and the
prosecutor charges both young men with trespassing, theft, and the inten-
tional destruction of property.
a. Should Jamahl and Nigel be prosecuted? What purpose would be served?
b Are Jamahl and Nigel guilty of the charges? Explain your answer.
C. If they are convicted, how should they be punished?