Computer Whiz Admits Violating Probation

William Landreth, the computer whiz dubbed “The Cracker” for his ability to electronically break into closely guarded computer networks, acknowledged Monday that he had violated his probation by vanishing last year.

Landreth, 22, of Poway, admitted to U.S. District Judge Rudi Brewster that he left the area without permission, failed to report to probation officials and had changed his address without approval.

Brewster ordered Landreth to complete a 90-day diagnostic study at Metropolitan Correctional Center in San Diego.

Sentencing was set for Oct. 13. The judge technically gave him the maximum sentence--five years in prison--so that Landreth could qualify for the psychiatric study.

A Thorough Examination

“I want a very thorough examination. I want him thoroughly evaluated psychiatrically,” Brewster said.

Landreth was arrested June 26 in McMinnville, Ore., near Portland, after he had asked a resident there for a drink of water from his garden hose.

He had been living as a transient, but gave his real name to police, who found that he was wanted for violating his 1984 probation.

“Everyone thought he had committed suicide when he left,” said his attorney, Peter Hughes, who referred to a mysterious note Landreth had left behind.

“I don’t know why he left. I think he needs some professional evaluation and that’s what is going to be done.”

The judge questioned Landreth to make sure that the young man “is totally with us.” Brewster asked Landreth if he knew where he was and what the court proceedings were about.

When Brewster asked Landreth if he knew he had violated probation by leaving the area, the computer whiz answered, “I had realized that, but I didn’t think it was the most important thing.”

“I did violate my probation,” Landreth said.

Since his arrest, Landreth has been prescribed Elavil, a drug used to combat depression and stabilize one’s mood.

When he was 18, Landreth pleaded guilty to wire fraud for breaking into an electronic mail network in Vienna, Va. He was placed on three years’ probation and was fined $87.

Landreth remains in jail without bail.

He wrote the book “Out of the Inner Circle,” which details how computers can be more secure from unauthorized use. Landreth also has given speeches about computers.