:::It is not the "same thing". Matters such as this need to be open and transparent. In such cases, the user in question is notified that there is an ongoing discussion, so that he/she can participate. It is posted at some public forum like WP:ANI or Wikiquette Alerts so that the rest of the community can monitor the discussion in the interest of transparency, and so that members may participate if they choose. If a block is imposed, a template notice is placed on the user's talk page so that he/she can appeal if he/she chooses. 

'None of this was done in this case. 

This is completely inappropriate, and you think you're getting away with this, you're mistaken.