It looks like they were just connecting to a private IRC server directly from their own machines. It is possible to remain reasonably anonymous online, but only if you take certain precautions.

But only as much as the other side doesn't take some even more extraordinary measure to locate you.

Indeed; the trial, if any (Private Manning?), will be interesting for the evidence collection techniques.

Manning is a totally different story that doesn't even fall the same branch of law. Plus state security in the US is somewhat touchy I hear. They're kids, they're gonna be all-right.

It appears some of them aren't kids, and from what we have seen computer crime is taken seriously when it is done against the government or popular things (Sarah Palin's email password reset and leak got the guy 1 year).

Class A misdemeanor and in most states it actually punishment wise an actual felony..

I mean, any self respecting hacker should have seen Sneakers. Best computer security movie of all time.

Idd, I think if they want to find you - there's a fat chance they will.

Haha thanks, I've been using that word in the wrong context for ages:p

The phrase you're looking for is "good chance"