The reason to look at the history of the fansite forum is to understand why things happened the way they did.  But it is not necessary to do an in-depth analysis to know what is needed going forward.  There are some things that can be done immediately.

The first thing to do is to clear up any misunderstandings about what happened last July.  Some of the staff believed the lies of a very successful and persistent cyber-bully.  They repeated those lies, claiming Dyebat, lchris, Citroenlady and members of other forums were involved in a plot to take over the fansite.   It was not true.

Second, explain that it was staff who caused the problems on the forum, including letting in banned members and creating other mayhem.  Perhaps they can explain how this was supposed to help, because I cannot. 

Third, get rid of the cyber-bully immediately every time he comes back.  Report him to the police.  Quit listening to him themselves and advise members to do the same.  Explain to members that someone who claims to have inside information about music matters is not necessarily to be trusted.

And finally, take a look at the rules.  If there are going to be rules, they should be enforced in the same manner for all members.  The rules should apply to everyone or no one.  There is a pervasive feeling among members that the rules are not applied equally to all.  I don’t believe this is limited to so-called contentious members. 

There will be some who clamor that the forum is fine the way it is.  I have noticed that it is always the same few people.  They could be the ones who get the favored treatment, even when they are contentious. 

I also think that the staff would find that if they let up a bit on the heavy hand of moderation, things would be easier, without being out of control.  If you treat people like children, they tend to live down to your expectations.  Try treating them like adults and see if they don’t live up to your expectations.

It is not necessary to wait to do the things required to move forward.  Explain about the hoax attack and the cyber-bully unambiguously.  Clear the names of those who did not do the things of which they were accused.  Moderate the forum in a fair and equal way.