Does the discovery of potential material fraud halt supplemental examination?
No, the discovery of potential material fraud does not halt the supplemental examination or any resulting reexamination. According to MPEP 2819:
“If the Office becomes aware, during the course of supplemental examination or of any reexamination ordered under 35 U.S.C. 257 as a result of the supplemental examination proceeding, that a material fraud on the Office may have been committed in connection with the patent requested to be examined, the supplemental examination proceeding or any reexamination proceeding ordered under 35 U.S.C. 257 will continue.“
This ensures that the examination process is completed regardless of potential fraud issues, which are handled separately through referral to the U.S. Attorney General.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2800 - Supplemental Examination,
MPEP 2819 - Discovery Of Possible Material Fraud,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure