[Brucester]

A member shared he wanted to add to a topic but it was locked.....

Sometimes topics can get back on topic?

Just a thought.

[neek]

The track record isn't good.  Some topics are explosive by nature and this site prides itself on light moderation.  There are many strong personalities that wouldn't take well to being "punished".  Your best bet may be to follow up in private with people.  I've found this to be a great way to establish a more personal connection and even to make friends.  Also to figure out who is more interested in just making noise.

[Ski]

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"I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach. 
I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each."

[Randito]

Given that creating new email addresses is free and easy,  it seems like banning dedicated trolls could be significant work for the moderator(s).    Organizations like twitter spend megabucks rooting out bot and troll accounts.

Nwhikers does have the ignore user feature.  Since the goal of trolls is attention and controversy.... 

I'm guilty of responding to posts that IMO contain deceptive or misleading information with a counter point.  This tactic doesn't stop the trolls, but I tend to agree with the following

[Chief Joseph]

Yes, I say to punish them or in extreme cases stone them. 

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Go placidly amid the noise and waste, and remember what comfort there may be in owning a piece thereof.