Richard Price, aka the "Datastream Cowboy," appeared before Bow Street Magistrates Court in London last Wednesday, charged with offences under the Computer Misuse Act. Price, who comes from London, has had his case adjourned until July 11, Newsbytes understands.

A second man, Matthew Bevan, of Cardiff, Wales, was arrested over the weekend. Bevan, aged 21, is described as a "computer technician." His case will come up at Bow Street Magistrates Court on July 11.

Although officials are keeping very quiet on the precise nature of the charges laid against the two men, they are facing charges of conspiracy to break into the US defense computer network. This is an offence under section two of the Computer Misuse Act and, depending on the court, possibly an offence under section three, the most serious section of the Act.

Unfortunately, since Bevan has not appeared in court yet, the laws of "sub judice," apply to reporting on the case. This prohibits journalists from reporting anything other than the facts of the case, or commenting on the case and its possible outcome, in any way.

It is also not clear to what extent, if any, the US authorities are involved in the case, nor whether they are seeking extradition orders against either of the men.

(Steve Gold/19960624)