FadedFrontiers
I think your main point is a fair one. Equal penalty for an equal violation of rules.
Which I assume includes not slandering other members.
(Sorry, not great at reading rules, probably the Australian convict in me?).
Pointing out facts or comments and asking questions in a genuine attempt to understand is one thing, calling a member deceitful or a liar, well that’s something entirely different.
On the subject of the latest member ban; tolerance should not be extended to someone who comes in and accuses any of us of behaving in a manner that is “xxxxed up”, simply based on their ignorance.
Dave has made public his involvement in helping Niche on multiple forums for many years. To post to the effect that he’s been a duplicitous hypocrite who is undermining the efforts of non-Niche manufacturers, for my two bobs worth, justifies a ban. (Assuming I’m reading the post correctly.)
What makes the slander even worse, is that it’s directed at someone who has served the espresso community selflessly and tirelessly for many, many years. That really, really sucks.