None of this is even remotely surprising. It's always been obvious to me that Tradefortress was a scammer. All his action are scammish.
Now, in order to prove an actual crime, one must prove intent. You can steal $1 million and refund 50%-60% and remove intent, thus avoid legal prosecution. You may also be able to maintain your reputation so you can get ready for the next scam because the community will be divided as to whether you are an actual scammer. Running only makes you look guilty and that's why he's making appearances. This tactic is not new and TF is running it to perfection. The victims all take a haircut and he walks away free and clear with a 6 figure score.
TF is not a dumb guy and there is no way a hack occurred as described, out of ignorance. This was a deliberate heist, that was likely planned from input.io's inception. Anyone not smart enough to see that, deserves to lose their money in the future. Why BCT continues to sponsor this clown and how he has avoided scammer tags, only leads me to believe they are taking a cut and/or love that ad revenue TF pays more than the community members themselves. Absolutely shameful!
and what if he eventually repays everyone back the full amount?
Good way of supporting him.
When every dime is repaid to every person who got scammed, I would GLADLY offer a public apology. Until then, I have not and will not support this clown. I knew he was a scammer and NEVER would have considered giving this guy any money. Where there is smoke there is usually fire and he's been hotboxing this forum. This is a classic scam technic and as you see the forum is torn on what to believe. He's sitting somewhere laughing his ass off. He's going to get away with this and it's more sad that you or anyone would defend such behavior and/or be so gullible as to not clearly see this is a
premeditated scam by someone who thinks he's untouchable.