To be clear: I don't know the paleontologist in question or what they did or didn't do. I don't even know my way around paleontology, aside from maybe the most basic education.

If I were in that position I really would prefer not to have to message this individual (or travel to Iran, or ...) to do some digging. And I understand being wary of someone who does. But I don't quite understand how that is placed on the pedestal as being friends or otherwise well acquainted with a know child molester and trafficker. Were they friends? Sure, avoid the scientist whenever possible.

But I do not see a fundamental wrong with asking nicely "Dear Mr., can I come and dig up your backyard because I think there are some important fossils?" Would it be wrong to dig up Charles Manson's back yard for that reason? State lands in Russa?