I consider it a crosspost when the same thing is asked in different forums. This case might not be a typical crosspost and that is why he doesn't have to pay a fine...
I think it is OK to post in the English forum when there is no response in the German one, but then at least it should be highlighted. Because I had already answered in the English forum, without knowing that you already answered in the German forum.
So while I agree that it is OK in some situations to post in another forum, it should have a link and explain that the question had been asked in another forum.
Anyway, not a big deal. Crossposts in this forum are not really treated too badly, just a quick information to avoid it. That's it.