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Report: Investigation Into Gizmodo iPhone Prototype Case Almost Done

Report: Investigation Into Gizmodo iPhone Prototype Case Almost Done

With all the fanfare surrounding the release of the iPad 2 and the continuing rumors surrounding the next iPhone, news about the stolen iPhone 4 prototype is a distant memory for some tech enthusiasts.

But investigators are still working the case, and Stephen Wagstaffe, district attorney for the county of San Mateo, Calif. told CNet on Thursday that it could come to a close as early as next month, when those investigators present Wagstaffe with their findings.

To refresh your memory, Gizmodo last year posted photos and videos of what it claimed to be a prototype of the next iPhone - before the official launch of the iPhone 4. It was later revealed that Gizmodo purchased it from 22-year-old Brian Hogan for $5,000 after it was left in a Redwood City bar by Apple employee Gray Powell.

Days later, police seized four computers and two servers from Gizmodo editor Jason Chen. The warrant said police were looking for property that was: used as the means of committing a felony; or tends to show that a felony has been committed, or that a particular person has committed a felony.

In July, Gawker Media and Gizmodo agreed to voluntarily turn over relevant documents to authorities in exchange for having the warrant voided.

Prosecutors are conducting a felony theft investigation, but no charges have been filed, CNet said. It has apparently taken this long because investigators were busy with other cases. Hogan, Chen, and Gawker Media could all be targets of the investigation.

The investigation has prompted questions of whether Gizmodo is protected as a news organization, or if the blog is liable because it purchased stolen property. Stay tuned.

[Thanks: http://www.pcmag.com]

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