2006年VOA标准英语-Hewlett-Packard Chair Resigns But Threat of Cri

（单词翻译）

By Mil Arcega
Washington, DC
14 September 2006
 
watch HP Chair Resigns

Hewlett-Packard Chairwoman Patricia Dunn says she is stepping down because of a corporate¹ spying scandal. The computer and printer company allegedly conducted an illegal probe into media leaks.  The scandal already has prompted two resignations and company insiders could face criminal charges. 

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Patricia Dunn (File photo)   
  
Hewlett-Packard chairwoman Patricia Dunn acknowledged she authorized² the private investigation³ that has plunged⁴ her company into turmoil⁵.  Dunn defended her actions but apologized for the techniques that were used to determine who was leaking company secrets to the media. 

Wall Street Journal reporter Joann Lublin says investigators⁷ hired by H.P. allegedly impersonated board members and reporters to obtain information. "Board members got spied on.  And their phone records were pried⁸ loose without their knowledge."

 
Terry Lenzner
  
Using fake identification to obtain information is called "pretexting." Private investigator⁶ Terry Lenzner says it should not have been done. "One of the standard rules is, if you get information that you can't use because the methodology you used to obtain it is too revolting to a judge or jury, then don't do it."

Bill Lockyer   
  
California Attorney General Bill Lockyer says, not only is it unethical, it's also illegal.  He warns charges are likely against company insiders and contractors⁹. "If it wasn't illegal, it was colossally¹⁰ stupid and I think people are offended."

Dunn said she was angry about leaks of confidential¹¹ board discussions. She will step down as chairman in January but will remain as a board director.  

 
Rob Enderle 
  
Technology analyst¹² Rob Enderle believes Dunn acted in the best interest for the company. "The end result was the buck¹³ stopped at her desk and she did what was best for the company which is, I think, historically consistent with what she's done so far.  She's been one of the board members who drove through the changes that brought H.P. up to the level where it currently is."

A 21-year board member who admitted leaking information to reporters also has resigned.  The probe is expected to widen as federal agents join the investigation.  The California attorney general says it may file charges in about a week.