[]Computer Crimes Unit Makes First Arrests in Va.
Updated: Thursday, Dec. 11, 2003 - 3:23 PM
By DERRILL HOLLY
Associated Press Writer
STERLING, Va. - Two North Carolina men were the first people charged under Virginia's anti-spam law, authorities said Thursday.
Jeremy Jaynes of Raleigh and Richard Rutowski of Cary each face four felony counts of using fraudulent means to transmit unsolicited bulk e-mail, according to Virginia Attorney General Jerry W. Kilgore.
Using the alias "Gaven Stubberfield," Jaynes allegedly sent hundreds of thousands of unsolicited e-mails. He is listed as eighth on registry of known spam operations as identified by Spamhaus-dot-org, a database of known spammers.
The two allegedly sent e-mails promoting investment schemes, computer software and other products. Both men are expected to be extradited to face charges in Loudoun County, Va., because many of the e-mail servers which handled the spam messages are located there.
The Spamhaus listing for Stubberfield describes him as being part of a "non-stop group of porn spammers with T1 access. Multiple machines pumping scam and porn spam around the clock."
According to Spamhaus, "Stubberfield seems to be in charge of this sleazy operation."
Jaynes - who is in custody - faces up to five years in prison and fines of up to $2,500 on each count if convicted. Rutowski has communicated with authorities through his lawyer, and is expected to surrender soon.
Kilgore said although these are the first indictments, it is likely his computer crimes unit will be busy for an extended period to come. [/]
