I guess that's entirely possible. I think I have done due diligence to ensure that doesn't happen.
I'll let you know.
I don't understand why you don't just share the address here, since that remains by far the most likely route to letting the owner of the coins track you down, far more likely than anything which will be achieved by blockchain analysis by this local individual.
We obviously can't force you to do anything, but be aware that if this person asks for anything about the private key, then they are trying to scam you/steal the coins. There is absolutely no reason whatsoever for them to require any information about the private key, and knowledge of the private key does not allow them to do any kind of blockchain analysis or investigation beyond that which can be done from knowledge of just the address.
Ok... so if I were to liaise with any member from btctalk who had offered information here regarding my find,.. would you be the most trustworthy and be able to resolve this in the most morally appropriate manner? If not.. who? I am happy to offer up any finders fee the actual owner proposes.. if any? Would other members agree that you were the most trustworthy? Genuine question.. if plan a falls through.. who do you all recommend here is most trustworthy?