The ongoing legal battle between former pharmaceutical executive Martin Shkreli and PleasrDAO, the NFT collective and current owner of The Wu-Tang Clan’s Once Upon a Time in Shaolin album, has taken a new turn. Federal Judge Pamela Chen issued a preliminary injunction requiring Shkreli to turn over his copies of the album to comply with the court order.
The preliminary injunction prohibits Shkreli from possessing, using, disseminating, or selling any interests in the album, including its data and files. He must also provide an inventory and accounting of the copies he has retained and disclose to whom he has distributed the data and files, along with any associated revenue. Additionally, Shkreli is ordered to turn over all recordings of the album’s contents to his counsel.
The court has set deadlines for Shkreli to comply with the preliminary injunction. By August 30, 2024, he must submit an affidavit confirming that he has surrendered all copies of the album and its contents to his defense counsel. By September 30, 2024, he must file an accounting affidavit identifying all known copies of the album or its contents, detailing distribution information and financial benefits derived from the album.
This recent ruling follows Judge Chen’s previous actions, including a restraining order issued in June. The order required Shkreli to cease distributing the album and mandated his appearance in court to justify why he should not be compelled to relinquish all copies of the album.
The legal battle over The Wu-Tang Clan’s Once Upon a Time in Shaolin album underscores the complexities of intellectual property rights in the digital age. The case highlights the importance of respecting copyright and ownership agreements, especially in the realm of unique and limited-release works like this album.
As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications for both Shkreli and PleasrDAO. The court’s decision to order Shkreli to surrender his copies of the album marks a significant development in this ongoing dispute. Stay tuned for further updates as the case unfolds and the parties involved navigate the complexities of intellectual property law.