Man this can be a tough situation, there are so many variables. Rules are established to keep the tournaments fair to one and all, if everbody follows the rules then no one can complain.
There are some things to consider - Was there a rule in the entry form stating no fishing on docks or one must stay in the boat? Was there concrete proof of cheating or is this one boats word against another? It's hard to dq someone when one boat claims cheating while the others says they were not! Unfortunately sometimes people are jealous of someone else and make up accusations. The solution is simple just about everybody has a camera or camera phone any more - take a pic and prove it! Pretty hard to beat the evidence! Ask the boat who complained if they would pay for a polygraph if the other boat passed it! Put your money where your mouth is.
I know from running tournaments over the last few years I have had to modify a number of rules. I know it seams silly but ask the guys on here with experience in the court room, it will often come down to technical stuff.
I hate cheaters and personally think cheating in a fishing tournament is the lowest of low. As anglers, sportsmen/women, conservationist and just HUMAN BEINGS we owe it to God, ourselves, family and EVERYBODY to be honest!
If there was cheating kick them out, dq them, tar and feather them on the town square. Don't forget to send me their names, descriptions and what they fish out of so I can kick them out of my tournaments before they even enter!
Just my two cents.
Brad
Can You Find, "LIMITVILLE!!!" :D