Back in my HiWired days I ran the blog there and did most of the posting. I was doing some cleaning up of my system and found this old post from October of last year that is worth re-posting:
I like computer games, I’ve been playing Civ IV Colonization quite a bit lately but some people who use their games to escape real life take it way to far:
“I was suddenly divorced, without a word of warning. That made me so angry,” the official quoted her as telling investigators and admitting the allegations.
The woman had not plotted any revenge in the real world, the official said.
She has not yet been formally charged, but if convicted could face a prison term of up to five years or a fine up to $5,000.
Players in “Maple Story” raise and manipulate digital images called “avatars” that represent themselves, while engaging in relationships, social activities and fighting against monsters and other obstacles.
The woman used login information she got from the 33-year-old office worker when their characters were happily married, and killed the character. The man complained to police when he discovered that his beloved online avatar was dead.
Well there is only one thing that can be done in justice. I think her virtual character should be taken to a virtual court, tried by a jury of her virtual peers and if convicted jailed in a virtual prison to make sure that the virtual society is protected from this virtual threat!
The words “Get a life” doesn’t to this story justice.
Via Ann Althouse who as a lawyer has a little fun with it.
Considering how things are going these days I suspect that a lot more people are retreating to these virtual worlds. Expect a lot more of htis stuff.
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