US: Jury: Cox illegally forced customers into renting its set-top box

After deliberating for three full days, an Oklahoma City jury has returned a verdict against Cox Communications, Inc. for violations of antitrust laws totaling $6.31 million. Under those laws, the award could be trebled to nearly $19 million, plus costs and attorneys’ fees. The plaintiffs intend to request injunctive relief as well.

The plaintiffs, subscribers to Cox’s cable services represented by the firms Whatley Kallas; Schneider Wallace Cottrell Konecky Wotkyns; and Kanner & Whiteley, alleged that Cox had violated the law by tying premium cable services to set-top box rentals.

Todd Schneider from the Schneider Wallace firm stated, “With this verdict the people of Oklahoma have scored a victory for fair competition which leads to lower prices and more innovation, which benefits everyone.”

This case is a bellwether for a number of similar lawsuits around the country that will be handled by other federal courts. The complaint in this case alleged violations of the federal Sherman Act and Oklahoma antitrust laws.

Full content: Daily Journal

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