Anatomy of a Poorly Written Conspiracy Theory

Photo illustration of Karen Velie (left) by Aaron Ochs. Velie photo courtesy of San Luis Obispo Police Dept.

Aaron Ochs is the author of “Defamers: How Fake News Terrorized a Community and Those Who Dared to Fight It,” a nonfiction detailing the false, deceptive and criminal practices of online tabloid CalCoastNews.

CalCoastNews is back in the headlines again. This time, they’re in the spotlight for accusing San Luis Obispo police chief Deanna Cantrell of “covering up” her stolen gun. The…