In The News Today – June 18, 2014

Jeffrey Knox, chief of the U.S. Department of Justice’s fraud section, told attendees at the Wall Street Journal CFO Network conference that the department doesn’t “outsource” FCPA enforcement to private law firms. This comes despite criticism from some companies who insist that, “instead of conducting their own investigations” the DOJ “often relies on private investigations conducted by the companies themselves.” (Wall Street Journal)

The Georgetown Center for Business and Public Policy’s director, Larry Downes, utilizes Tesla Motor’s announcement that it would open up all its patents to underscore the need for “genuine” patent reform to reign in “patent trolls.” Downs writes that, “Cynical litigation to enforce often worthless patents are costing companies billions in legal fees and other forms of tribute.” (Washington Post)

In yet another high-profile TCPA class action settlement, Best Buy has agreed to pay a $4.55 million settlement for allegedly making unsolicited telephone calls. The class reportedly consists of about 481,000 people, each of whom will receive between $50 and $100 per call. The lead plaintiff will receive $5,000. The plaintiffs’ attorneys are seeking “approximately $1.14 million.” (LegalNewsline)