They should have quit while they were behind.
No one doing scientific research destroys or loses data. I own an Industrial Hygiene firm. We throw NOTHING away. If we ever get called to court, we must be able to substantiate everything. The destruction of data because they “didn’t have room” at their new digs doesn’t pass the smell test. Definite coverup. These guys have committed fraud and are guilty of conspiracy, using public monies, and must go to jail. Albore didn’t do the research, so lacking a clear link to the research, was probably a willing dupe. Which just proves he is an idiot. The scientists who have been vindicated must sue the people who have damaged their careers. Maybe the legal system can finally be put to good use.