A group of 40 professional photographers has filed a complaint in federal court in New York City, alleging that Taco Bell is giving away their work without permission in DVDs, according to Courthouse News Service. The photographers say Taco Bell has handed out 2 million of the "Eco Rangers" promotional DVDs, after wrongfully acquiring them from Snap TV.
From Courthouse News Service:
According to the federal complaint, Snap TV purchased rights to 102 images through a deal with Minden Pictures. But the licensing rights were nontransferable, the photographers say.The restaurant chain handed out 2 million of the unlicensed products through its 5,800 U.S. restaurants, according to the complaint. The DVDs feature animal-themed games and meals from the kid's menu.The photographers seek $11.2 million in damages for copyright infringement from Taco Bell and Snap TV.
Taco Bell spokesperson Rob Poetsch said the lawsuit is without merit and provided the following statement:
"In fact, this case is about a simple dispute between Snap TV and Minden Pictures over a partially unpaid invoice of a few thousand dollars. All of the images used were properly licensed. In our view, this is a frivolous lawsuit and we intend to vigorously defend the case."
