Official Statement of TarValon.Net Regarding Riley Robinson

Jas'yn Al'Dragoran · Nov 3, 2012

Aulrick Vendour said:
Meirah - you misunderstand my meaning.
I think everyone understands that the state will decide if it wants to prosecute or not... But if TV.net doesn't file a complaint (NOTE: the complaint is NOT prosecution, federal or civillian. At least so far as I understand. It simply means informing law enforcement that something happened), then how will the prosecuter even KNOW something happened? I mean, if TV.net simply doesn't inform anyone, how will anyone know to prosecute?

Im not sure about the us law but in canada as a registered charity you would have to declare the money as stolen in your taxation records. Failure to do so wwould create an anamoly where you record taking in more money than you have and that would amount to fraud on the part of whover files the organizations taxes.

Myralin al'Ser · Nov 3, 2012

Sela Narian said:
Yes, it would hurt him. That is half the point of jail: people shouldn't want to go there.

And as said, it is not up to us to judge his legal consequences. It is up to an impartial prosecutor and possibly a court presented with facts. We are none of us impartial.

No, it's not up to us. I think we all understand that and are willing to accept whatever happens. However, we are still allowed to state our opinions and what we wish would happen. And of course that will be different for everyone.

Sela Narian · Nov 3, 2012

Fair enough. I'm doing the same. :cheeseeni:

Hammar O'Justice · Nov 4, 2012

Prosecutors are more likely to find out quickly if the victim reports. Other routes for that knowledge exist.

No further comment.

Ajailyn Morrivinna · Nov 4, 2012

Jas'yn Al'Dragoran said:
Im not sure about the us law but in canada as a registered charity you would have to declare the money as stolen in your taxation records. Failure to do so wwould create an anamoly where you record taking in more money than you have and that would amount to fraud on the part of whover files the organizations taxes.

In the US our filing status is not actually a charity, we are a not for profit group, but not an actual charity. While we as a group do charitable things, we ourselves are not a charity. One is a 501c3 or a 501c7, 501c3 is Religious, Educational, Charitable, Scientific, Literary, Testing for Public Safety, to Foster National or International Amateur Sports Competition, or Prevention of Cruelty to Children or Animals Organizations. While we as a 501c7 is Social and Recreational Clubs. The 501c is what states we are not for profit.

Earlier when I was stating if we prosecute or just file a police report, I should have clarified a bit. I understand it is up to the state, prosecution might have been a wrong word. I personally want to see a police report filed. As someone who has worked in a field that directly deals with large amounts of money and the public trust I don't feel he should not have this on record. I understand what is real life job is, but if that ever changes I do not think he should be allowed to work with a large amount of money. I personally would NEVER want him to work where I work and a police report would ensure that. There are many things you can have gone to jail for but money embezzling is the one things that the IRS and probably banks would look at and say no, we can not hire you. When I was stating prosecution maybe I should have stated if pursuing the return of funds through legal means. I personally think both should happen, but if our board decides we will not pursue the return of fund through legal means (the civil complaint Hammer stated above) I understand, but my personal opinion is that a police report should at least be filed, at that point as I stated before I am aware it is up to the state to pursue jail time.

I know we don't know the exact amount, but considering the way Jeffan gave us an idea based on the number of people going to fall ball, figuring half would stay in teh hotel and the other half not (a fair 50/50 guestimation) and the assuming that none of our fund raising money from the summer fundraiser has actually paid any bills yet from that monies and was still working with past donation.. this isn't just a few 100 dollars or even just 1000, it is possibly several 1000s. I personally don't care if it was taken all at one time or over several months, but as I stated in the thread regarding our emotional feelings, this hurt me in more than one way. I've realized it was actually three not just two since then. 1. I as a member of this site had my site put at risk of insolvency, breaking legal contracts.. I'm thankful for Caerwyn for helping out with Fall Ball even though I'm not going. 2. He hurt me by stealing the generous donation I gave to the summer fundraiser, this was the first year I was able to give something more than just $5 or $20, I gave over $100 (I state this not to brag or make anyone feel less, but to understand being able to contribute for me was a BIG deal and makes me glad that in 2012 I was not only in a place financially to give but to give in a big way to you, my friends and chosen family). 3. I'm on the Community OutReach staff, I worked on the fundraiser, I am part of the staff working on the Feast of Lights fund raiser and expect to be on the staff for our next year's summer fund raiser. He hurt me here because now I as a member of that staff have to convince members again to donate to our charity this FoL and to our site next summer. Even I who is on that team feel a bit of trepidation about that. I plan to give what I can, but it still makes me wary.

When I posted my request I know/knew that the final decision is up to our Board, but I wanted to express my request in hopes that I could bring to light reasons a police report should be filed.

Myralin while we and our board don't have the ability to request jail time or basically request criminal charges be filed, the Board does have the choice to a legal request for compliancy to repay the money stolen, not just take it at his word, if they so chose through a civil complaint. And I agree very much with your statement that we are allowed to state our opinion/request regarding this, even though we know the final decision is up to the Board.

I kinda was asking for the civil complaint and the police report for the state to decide if criminal charges should be filed. When I made my request. I too like Kitan did not mean to imply I expected it, and I am very grateful that my opinion was noted.. as that was all I wanted from my original post.

Edit to clarify.

Melisande Arneil · Nov 4, 2012

It is important to understand that the operating account from which Mr. Robinson misappropriated funds does not now, and did not then, and will not ever, contain funds collected for charitable organizations. Funds relevant to specific charitable initiatives were never entered into the operating account and instead went directly to the intended beneficiaries. TarValon.net leadership is, on current facts, convinced that activities conducted for charitable purposes remain completely unaffected by Mr. Robinson’s actions.

This should be repeated: TarValon.net is not aware that any charitable entity has been adversely affected by these events.

From Hammar's initial posting - charitable funds were never held in the account that was embezzled from. However, I suppose it's possible that if you donated to the Tower directly, and not to one of the charities that we've supported this past year, that those funds may have been misappropriated. I'm sure that as Hammar and the Board are able to give us facts, they will be able to clarify more.

Aulrick Vendour · Nov 4, 2012

Thank you for clarifying what you can Hammer, and thanks again to you and everyone doing everything they can.
I just recently joined the tower (though I'm in TV.net far longer), but unlike other commentators here, what I've seen so far only convinces me I've made the right choice in joining. This is an incredible community and I'd be honored to be a part of it.

Emerald ní Róhan · Nov 4, 2012

Jalen, I certainly wasn't offended by anything, and I didn't take your message personally. But perhaps you are right. It seems that I managed to offend someone else, which was certainly not my intention. I think I will take your advice and give this subject a break. Thank you.

Miridyth Al'Landerin · Nov 4, 2012

Question for Hammer.

Can we get clarification of what the Board "has" to do legally and what it doesn't? As a corporation, what are the possible legal ramifications, if you can tell us, if the corporation doesn't seek legal action? As donating members...what are our "rights" under the law? Do we even have any if we are not financially effected personally? What responsibility does the Board of Director's have to the membership, especially since the board is not elected by the membership but appointed by other board members?

I can assume that things will be overhauled on how we do things financially so that this will never happen again. I am concerned about some of the comments but understand frustration levels from people who had plans and then those plans were changed for fall ball, but now back on track. I understand a frustration of feeling "betrayed" by an individual. I also understand how it feels to be betrayed by a person that one still likes and wishes wholeheartedly that other decisions had been made so that this didn't happen. What I don't understand is the benefit of either calling for "prosecution" or not calling for prosecution. I didn't think we had a vote in this. So other than for personal catharthis or for a better understanding of what happened and asking for confirmation of our feelings, how does this benefits the Board or the site?

IF the corporation wants a membership vote...I can see the purpose. So is this a "Board" decision in regards to prosecution, a MUST Legal thing the corporation must do in order to protect the corporation, or is this a polling of membership in order for the Board to better see what the membership wants in order to help them decide what they SHOULD do? Thanks for looking.

Ajailyn Morrivinna · Nov 4, 2012

Miridyth,

I know you aren't saying I shouldn't have a say to express my request. And in the end it has been stated that it is the Board's decision and we aren't actually polling the membership. I posted my request so that my board members would be aware of my opinion in the matter, whether they take it into consideration or not, I felt much better knowing that it was at least noted.

And while it may or may not be a benefit to our community here, requesting a report be filed with the police allows this to be put on record this crime. While it doesn't change the outcome of what happens here at the site, it does allow future employers, creditors, or others who need to be made aware of past criminal behavior. Part of my request was at least recognizing that as well, and I have been informed by Hammer that it was noted, even if they dont' agree or act on such notation.

Melisande,
The summer fund raiser isn't for a charity we fund for, it is to raise money for the site and that is what I was referencing.. I am aware our charity funds were not taken, but it still doesn't mean we don't have that worry about our donations.. It is still a broken trust.

Zashara Sho'am · Nov 5, 2012

I felt like what Ajailyn and Kitan asked for was that the Board take their information/viewpoint into consideration. It was essentially a 'petition' from a member of the community to the Board of Directors. Hammar's response was to say that their 'petition' had been heard. We all know neither him nor the Board are going to comment on the petitions. I'm fairly certain Ajailyn and Kitan knew that too (correct me if I'm wrong ladies, I don't want to put words in your mouth). I wholeheartedly support their requests and thank Hammar for his acknowledgement of those posts.

Speaking of putting words in mouths - A lot of posts have talked about how Riley feels, or is supposed to feel, based off judgements from those who know him (or thought they knew him anyways). I have no clue how Riley feels about any of this. If you had asked me a week ago about what Riley feels or thinks or does, embezzling a bunch of money from the Tower would not be on the list. I would hope that he does feel guilty and works to make restitution in some way, monetarily or other. At this point, I don't know.

I'm with Ariana on this one. It's fine that people forgive him individually for his transgressions. Everyone has the right to forgive/not forgive. However, the law is the law. Embezzlement is a felony. Actions have consequences. You suffer the consequences for your actions. When a child breaks the rules set by his parents, he faces the consequences (grounding, losing privileges etc.). Most parents, good parents anyways, will forgive the child. That doesn't get the kid out of facing the consequences. Different circumstances, yes, but the point is that forgiveness and consequence are completely different things. Some people are approaching this discussion with forgiveness as their primary point, while others are looking at this in term of consequences. That's where the disconnect is.

Hammar O'Justice · Nov 5, 2012

Miridyth Al'Landerin said:
Question for Hammer.

Responding to this post on my phone makes me vomit. I should be able to respond tomorrow (Monday).

Kitan Tataru · Nov 5, 2012

Zashara Da'sainne said:
I felt like what Ajailyn and Kitan asked for was that the Board take their information/viewpoint into consideration. It was essentially a 'petition' from a member of the community to the Board of Directors. Hammar's response was to say that their 'petition' had been heard. We all know neither him nor the Board are going to comment on the petitions. I'm fairly certain Ajailyn and Kitan knew that too (correct me if I'm wrong ladies, I don't want to put words in your mouth). I wholeheartedly support their requests and thank Hammar for his acknowledgement of those posts.

Zasha is exactly right (for me, at least, I can't speak for Ajailyn). Thank you for saying it so well, Zasha

And Hammar, I've gotta say, you are the most awesome attorney I could ever imagine. I cannot express that enough. I am VERY glad you're the one helping us wade through this. :bow

Kassina Tendar · Nov 5, 2012

Kitan Tataru said:
And Hammar, I've gotta say, you are the most awesome attorney I could ever imagine. I cannot express that enough. I am VERY glad you're the one helping us wade through this. :bow

^ This. Hammar, you are amazing. :wave :horsey

Jas'yn Al'Dragoran · Nov 5, 2012

Thanks for the clarification. I agree with you.

Ajailyn Morrivinna said:
In the US our filing status is not actually a charity, we are a not for profit group, but not an actual charity. While we as a group do charitable things, we ourselves are not a charity. One is a 501c3 or a 501c7, 501c3 is Religious, Educational, Charitable, Scientific, Literary, Testing for Public Safety, to Foster National or International Amateur Sports Competition, or Prevention of Cruelty to Children or Animals Organizations. While we as a 501c7 is Social and Recreational Clubs. The 501c is what states we are not for profit.

Earlier when I was stating if we prosecute or just file a police report, I should have clarified a bit. I understand it is up to the state, prosecution might have been a wrong word. I personally want to see a police report filed. As someone who has worked in a field that directly deals with large amounts of money and the public trust I don't feel he should not have this on record. I understand what is real life job is, but if that ever changes I do not think he should be allowed to work with a large amount of money. I personally would NEVER want him to work where I work and a police report would ensure that. There are many things you can have gone to jail for but money embezzling is the one things that the IRS and probably banks would look at and say no, we can not hire you. When I was stating prosecution maybe I should have stated if pursuing the return of funds through legal means. I personally think both should happen, but if our board decides we will not pursue the return of fund through legal means (the civil complaint Hammer stated above) I understand, but my personal opinion is that a police report should at least be filed, at that point as I stated before I am aware it is up to the state to pursue jail time.

I know we don't know the exact amount, but considering the way Jeffan gave us an idea based on the number of people going to fall ball, figuring half would stay in teh hotel and the other half not (a fair 50/50 guestimation) and the assuming that none of our fund raising money from the summer fundraiser has actually paid any bills yet from that monies and was still working with past donation.. this isn't just a few 100 dollars or even just 1000, it is possibly several 1000s. I personally don't care if it was taken all at one time or over several months, but as I stated in the thread regarding our emotional feelings, this hurt me in more than one way. I've realized it was actually three not just two since then. 1. I as a member of this site had my site put at risk of insolvency, breaking legal contracts.. I'm thankful for Caerwyn for helping out with Fall Ball even though I'm not going. 2. He hurt me by stealing the generous donation I gave to the summer fundraiser, this was the first year I was able to give something more than just $5 or $20, I gave over $100 (I state this not to brag or make anyone feel less, but to understand being able to contribute for me was a BIG deal and makes me glad that in 2012 I was not only in a place financially to give but to give in a big way to you, my friends and chosen family). 3. I'm on the Community OutReach staff, I worked on the fundraiser, I am part of the staff working on the Feast of Lights fund raiser and expect to be on the staff for our next year's summer fund raiser. He hurt me here because now I as a member of that staff have to convince members again to donate to our charity this FoL and to our site next summer. Even I who is on that team feel a bit of trepidation about that. I plan to give what I can, but it still makes me wary.

When I posted my request I know/knew that the final decision is up to our Board, but I wanted to express my request in hopes that I could bring to light reasons a police report should be filed.

Myralin while we and our board don't have the ability to request jail time or basically request criminal charges be filed, the Board does have the choice to a legal request for compliancy to repay the money stolen, not just take it at his word, if they so chose through a civil complaint. And I agree very much with your statement that we are allowed to state our opinion/request regarding this, even though we know the final decision is up to the Board.

I kinda was asking for the civil complaint and the police report for the state to decide if criminal charges should be filed. When I made my request. I too like Kitan did not mean to imply I expected it, and I am very grateful that my opinion was noted.. as that was all I wanted from my original post.

Edit to clarify.

Ajailyn Morrivinna · Nov 5, 2012

Kitan Tataru said:
Zasha is exactly right (for me, at least, I can't speak for Ajailyn). Thank you for saying it so well, Zasha

Ditto

Jordan Rayne · Nov 5, 2012

He is not a career criminal. It doesn't necessarily need to go on his record. This isn't general knowledge, but over a year ago, right after I got separated, I was depressed. I had just gotten home from 10th Anni, I was broke, depressed and desperate, so I stole three packs of cigarettes from work. I got caught, fired and had to go to court. Since it was my first offense, I had to pay the store back, a fine and spend 24 hours in jail. Plus, I was on probation for a year, if I didn't get into anymore trouble, it would be expunged from my record. It has been. If it hadn't, I wouldn't have a job now. I'm a good person, and trustworthy, good people can do bad things, especially when depressed, or desperate. If it's not rape, or murder, or something equally monstrous, why should it follow someone around for the rest of their lives? Especially when what they do for a living is in NO way related to their crime?
I'm sorry, but while I am saddened and shocked by what happened, I know, from studies, that there are things that can push good people to do things they never thought they would ever do. EVER. And I honestly believe that is the case here.

Raam Sho'am · Nov 5, 2012

Because stealing three packs of cigarettes is clearly the same as a CFO embezzling several thousands of dollars.

Also, what he does for a living requires the highest level of trust. I personally don't consider a man who commits a felony to be worthy of that trust.

Jordan Rayne · Nov 5, 2012

Theft is theft. Plain and simple. I'm not saying he shouldn't be punished, just that his life shouldn't be utterly destroyed because he made a mistake, albeit a very, very large one.

Kelgan al'Moranwin · Nov 5, 2012

I unfortunately do have to agree that embezzling thousands of dollars is a whole different ball game from stealing a few packs of cigarettes. I recognize that desperation is the mother of all sorts of evils, but it seems problematic to me to say that something of this scale should be expunged with the ease you experienced, Jordan. I certainly don't want to see his life ruined forever because he did something stupid and out of character, but given what he did, that simply may not be an option.

Official Statement of TarValon.Net Regarding Riley Robinson

More options

Jas'yn Al'Dragoran

Myralin al'Ser

Sela Narian

Oracle of Delphi

Hammar O'Justice

Ajailyn Morrivinna

Melisande Arneil

Aulrick Vendour

Emerald ní Róhan

Miridyth Al'Landerin

Guest

Ajailyn Morrivinna

Zashara Sho'am

The Dark One

Hammar O'Justice

Kitan Tataru

Kassina Tendar

Jas'yn Al'Dragoran

Ajailyn Morrivinna

Jordan Rayne

Raam Sho'am

Jordan Rayne

Kelgan al'Moranwin

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