Judge allows lawsuit over Blackbeard's shipwreck to proceed

[seekerGH]

Fayetteville videographer Rick Allen can continue his lawsuit alleging North Carolina officials illegally copied his videos of Blackbeard’s wrecked pirate ship and then passed a law, nicknamed “Blackbeard’s Law,” in an effort to legalize their actions, a federal judge ruled on Thursday.

U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle partly dismissed Allen’s lawsuit. But he also allowed Allen to proceed with a claim that Blackbeard’s Law is invalid in regard to violations of federal copyright law, and to proceed with a claim that North Carolina violated his copyright on photos and videos from the shipwreck.

Blackbeard’s law was passed in 2015 and 2016 after the dispute emerged over Allen’s copyright and media rights, and access to the shipwreck. The law says photos, videos and other documentary material from derelict vessels are public record while in the custody of state government. Public records by law are to be given to anyone who asks, and for as little cost as is needed to make duplicates.

In related matters, Florida treasure-hunting company Intersal Inc., which in 1996 found Blackbeard’s wrecked Queen Anne’s Revenge just off the North Carolina coast, is continuing its litigation against North Carolina.

Intersal in North Carolina Business Court accuses the state of breach of contract and infringement of intellectual property rights. The case is scheduled for trial in spring 2018, said John Masters, chairman of Intersal’s board.

Judge allows lawsuit over Blackbeard's shipwreck to proceed - News - The Fayetteville Observer - Fayetteville, NC

 

Amazon Forum Fav 👍

Diving for Pleasure and Treasure - Grab it through Amazon!

[Salvor6]

Well there you have it. North Carolina screws the treasure hunters. They must have learned from Florida.

 

[aquanut]

Yeah, Whenever they lose in court, they pass a new LAW. At least this judge sounds like he'll give the average citizen a fair break.

 

[I'm Hoping]

I'm hoping the State looses!!

 

[capt dom]

The State never loses... Its all the people who actually lose on both sides as the crooked bureaucrats and politicians attempt to manipulate the law to suit their own bidding. The Federal Judge was not attempting to protect the average "joe"... The State blatantly attempting to circumvent Copy write Law needs to be reviewed.

 

[Salvor6]

You're right Capt Dom. And now the voters need to look at those legislators that are against salvage and vote them out of office.

 

[TreasureCDave]

You're right Capt Dom. And now the voters need to look at those legislators that are against salvage and vote them out of office.

Your damn right Pete, but, it ain't easy draining the crooked swamp!!