Week In Review
- Elissa D. Hecker - Editor
- Apr 21
- 14 min read
By Seth Nguyen
Edited by Elissa D. Hecker
Below, for your browsing convenience, the categories are divided into: Entertainment, Arts, Sports, Technology/Media, and General News.
Entertainment
‘Optimistic’ Major Labels and Internet Archive Confirm Advanced Copyright Suit Settlement Talks
The lawsuit between major labels Universal Music and Sony Music and the Internet Archive over the "Great 78 Project" music preservation initiative may soon be resolved. Both sides have requested a 30-day stay to facilitate settlement talks, with optimism that the case will be dismissed if a resolution is reached. The lawsuit, which began in 2023, has faced significant artist pushback, with over 850 musicians opposing the legal action. If a settlement isn't reached by early May, a new schedule will be proposed.
Harvey Weinstein, Facing New Charge, Returns to Court in New York
Harvey Weinstein’s 2020 conviction for sex crimes was overturned, leading to a new trial in New York. He faces additional charges for assaulting a woman in 2006, alongside previous allegations from Miriam Haley and Jessica Mann. Weinstein denies the charges and cites health issues while in jail. The trial follows his earlier conviction in California and remains a key case in the #MeToo movement.
YouTube Expands AI Likeness Detection Tools to Protect Creators and Artists
YouTube is expanding its AI likeness detection program to protect creators from deepfakes. Partnering with top creators, it aims to refine tools that detect AI-generated content mimicking a creator’s appearance or voice. This initiative helps creators control their likeness and aligns with YouTube's support for the NO FAKES Act, ensuring responsible AI use.
Musician Says She Was Left Shocked By ‘Bizarre’ Emails From Acting Kennedy Center Director Richard Grenell
Richard Grenell, interim head of the Kennedy Center, had a heated email exchange with musician Yasmin Williams after she questioned recent changes at the center, including rolling back diversity efforts. Grenell responded aggressively, dismissing DEI initiatives. The exchange underscores ongoing tensions over Trump’s influence on cultural institutions.
The Menendez Brothers May Be Resentenced
Lyle and Erik Menendez, imprisoned for killing their parents in 1989, could be released after decades due to new evidence and public support. Three legal paths are in play: resentencing, a clemency petition to Governor Newsom, and a habeas corpus claim based on newly revealed abuse allegations. A resentencing hearing is moving forward despite opposition from the new district attorney. The brothers’ case has drawn fresh attention through documentaries and social media, with family members and supporters pushing for their release.
Brazilian Authorities Launch Largest Disruption Operation Against Streaming Fraud Platform JustAnotherPanel
Brazilian authorities disrupted JustAnotherPanel, a service behind fake music streams and fraudulent online interactions. Supported by IFPI and Pro-Música Brasil, the operation blocked 43 local services and impacted over 1,131 foreign re-sellers. This crackdown, the largest of its kind in Brazil, helps protect artists and ensure authentic music experiences online.
Katie Perry Is Suing Katy Perry in Australia. Wait, What?
The legal battle between Australian designer Katie Perry and pop star Katy Perry over trademark rights is being reconsidered by Australia’s High Court. The designer initially won, but an appeals court reversed the decision, arguing that the designer’s trademark should not have been granted due to Katy Perry's existing fame as a musician at that time, as the court said that she might have wanted to extend her brand to clothing. The case could set a precedent for future trademark disputes involving international brands in Australia.
UAE Gets a Collection Society — Introducing the ‘Emirates Music Rights Association’
The UAE has launched the Emirates Music Rights Association (EMRA) to manage music creators' rights, in line with new copyright laws. This move aims to boost the creative economy and aligns with the UAE's We the UAE 2031 vision, as the country grows rapidly in the global music market.
Arts
Miami Art Dealer Is Charged With Selling Fraudulent Warhols
Miami art dealer Leslie Roberts was indicted for selling fake Andy Warhols, using forged documents to make them appear legitimate. The charges follow a lawsuit from a family who claims it was duped into buying millions of dollars' worth of forgeries. Two others were also charged in the scheme.
An ‘Army of Child Laborers’ Enriches Shen Yun, Ex-Dancers Say in Suit
Two former dancers from Shen Yun Performing Arts have sued the company, accusing it of child labor, abuse, and poor working conditions. The lawsuit claims that performers, including minors, were subjected to long hours, low pay, and physical violence. Shen Yun denies the allegations, stating they are false and politically motivated.
A.C.L.U. Sues Defense Department Schools Over Book Bans
The ACLU sued the Defense Department’s school system, claiming it violated students’ First Amendment rights by removing books and limiting lessons on race, gender, and LGBTQ issues under Trump administration orders. The lawsuit argues that the changes were politically motivated and harmed students’ education, especially in subjects like history and health.
Sports
Trump Administration Sues Maine in Standoff Over Transgender Athletes
The Trump administration sued Maine for allowing transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports, claiming that the state violates federal anti-discrimination law. The move followed threats to cut school and lunch program funding. Maine’s governor called it a fight over states' rights, not sports, and vowed to challenge the administration in court.
Big Parlays, Fake Injuries and Telegram Tips: The Betting Scandal in College and Pro Sports
In 2024, NBA player Jontay Porter colluded with gamblers to manipulate his performance in games for profit. The scheme involved fake injuries and early exits, leading to over $1 million in suspicious bets. The FBI is investigating a larger sports betting scandal, with multiple arrests and concerns over the impact of legalized gambling on sports integrity.
Artemi Panarin and MSG Sports Reached Settlements With Rangers Employee After Sexual Assault Allegation
Rangers star Artemi Panarin and MSG Sports paid settlements to a former employee who accused Panarin of sexual assault in December 2023. The woman left the team in August 2024. The NHL closed the case after an internal investigation and Panarin has not commented.
Ukrainian Tennis Player Lesia Tsurenko Files Lawsuit Against Women’s Tennis Association Tour Over Russian Invasion
Ukrainian tennis player Lesia Tsurenko is suing the WTA and its chairman Steve Simon, claiming they mishandled her concerns about Russian players’ war support, causing her emotional distress. The WTA denies wrongdoing, and the case is ongoing.
How a Deal to Shape Golf’s Future Went Cold
PGA Tour and LIV Golf merger talks have stalled despite President Trump's efforts. LIV wants to stay independent, while the PGA Tour seeks a full merger. The two sides remain at an impasse, with joint events like the Masters being rare.
Media/Technology
Google Broke the Law to Keep Its Advertising Monopoly
A U.S. judge ruled that Google illegally maintained a monopoly over parts of the online ad tech market, harming competition and publishers. The ruling follows another 2023 decision finding Google held an illegal search monopoly. The Justice Department may push for Google to sell parts of its ad business, while Google plans to appeal. The case is part of broader antitrust efforts against major tech firms.
Mark Zuckerberg Takes Stand to Defend Meta Against Antitrust Suit Mark Zuckerberg testified in an antitrust trial where the FTC argues that Meta illegally built a social media monopoly by acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp to crush competition. The government claims these purchases were part of a “buy-or-bury” strategy, while Meta defends the deals as legitimate and says it faces strong competition from platforms like TikTok. The case could force Meta to sell Instagram and WhatsApp, reshaping the tech industry, but legal experts say that the FTC faces a tough battle.
At Trial, Zuckerberg Defends Buying Instagram and WhatsApp
Mark Zuckerberg defended Meta’s purchases of Instagram and WhatsApp in the antitrust trial, arguing they were normal business decisions and not moves to eliminate competition. Meta is defending itself by claiming the market is too narrowly defined and there was no harm to consumers.
Leading Academics Split on Fair Use Debate in Meta Lawsuit
In the Meta copyright lawsuit, 10 law professors argue that AI training isn't "fair use," claiming it infringes copyright, while 4 other professors disagree, asserting that AI training is transformative and falls under "intermediate copying."
White House Ends a Regular Reporting Slot for Independent Newswires
The Trump administration ended reserved press pool spots for The A.P., Bloomberg, and Reuters, tightening control over media access. Critics call it retaliation against unfavorable coverage and a threat to press freedom.
Washington Takes Aim at DeepSeek and Its American Chip Supplier, Nvidia
The U.S. is cracking down on China's AI start-up, DeepSeek, over concerns it could surpass the U.S. in AI development. The Trump administration is restricting Nvidia’s AI chip sales to China and investigating whether Nvidia violated U.S. rules. Congressional probes are also examining if DeepSeek illegally obtained U.S. technology, including Nvidia chips and OpenAI data.
Discord App Exposes Children to Abuse and Graphic Content, Lawsuit Says
New Jersey's attorney general sued Discord, alleging that the platform exposes children to abuse and exploitation due to weak safety measures. The lawsuit claims that Discord's lax controls allowed predators to target minors, despite age restrictions. While Discord has improved safety features, the suit argues it prioritized profits over protecting children.
White House to Ask Congress to Claw Back Funding From NPR and PBS
The Trump administration plans to cut $1.1 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which supports NPR and PBS. This move, driven by Republican criticism of public media, could impact rural areas that rely on public broadcasting. Supporters of the cut argue that technology has made these services unnecessary.
Palin Libel Retrial Against The New York Times Begins
A retrial of Sarah Palin’s defamation case against The New York Times began, focusing on whether the newspaper knowingly published false information linking Palin to a 2011 shooting. Palin argues that the editorial was published with malice, while The Times claims it was an honest mistake quickly corrected. The jury must decide if the error was intentional.
Trump Aides Close State Dept. Office on Foreign Disinformation
Secretary of State Marco Rubio shut down a State Department office that tracked foreign disinformation from countries like China, Russia, and Iran, putting 40 employees on leave and cutting related contracts. The move followed Republican claims that the office censored conservative voices, although former officials denied this, saying the work focused only on foreign threats. The closure is part of broader planned cuts at the State Department, even as foreign disinformation efforts intensify.
This Company’s Surveillance Tech Makes Immigrants ‘Easy Pickings’ for Trump
Geo Group, a private prison company, profits from providing digital tracking tools for immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. These tools monitor immigrants facing deportation, reducing reliance on detention centers. Despite technical issues, the company has secured lucrative contracts, benefiting from strong lobbying and close ties with government officials. Critics argue that this expands surveillance over immigrant communities.
Russia Jails 4 Journalists for Working With Navalny’s Organization
Four Russian journalists were sentenced to five and a half years in prison for working with Alexei Navalny’s banned Anti-Corruption Fund, highlighting the dangers of independent journalism under the Kremlin’s crackdown on free speech since the Ukraine invasion. Rights groups condemned the verdict as part of a wider assault on dissent.
General News
Judge Threatens Contempt Proceedings Over Deportation Flights to El Salvador
In March, Judge James Boasberg threatened contempt proceedings against the Trump administration for defying a court order to stop deporting Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador. Despite the order, nearly 140 migrants were sent to a prison without the chance to challenge their deportation, prompting legal action that could lead to criminal prosecution.
Maryland Deportee Told Senator He Had Been in Isolation in El Salvador Prison
Senator Chris Van Hollen said Kilmar Abrego Garcia, mistakenly deported to El Salvador, was traumatized in a maximum-security prison before being moved to isolation. The case has sparked a political fight over due process and the Trump administration’s refusal to allow his return.
Judge Pauses Trump’s Use of Alien Enemies Act to Deport Venezuelans in Colorado
Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan migrants accused of gang ties has triggered major legal challenges. Courts have blocked some deportations, questioning the law’s use, while the ACLU fights to stop more removals to El Salvador’s CECOT prison.
Trump Administration Directs Judges to Deny Asylum Without Hearings
A new Trump administration policy urges immigration judges to swiftly dismiss asylum applications deemed unlikely to succeed, bypassing the usual lengthy court hearings. This directive, aimed at reducing a backlog of nearly four million immigration cases, would result in rapid deportation orders without allowing asylum seekers to fully present their claims. Critics argue this undermines due process, especially for applicants without legal representation, and could result in unfair decisions.
Military Judge Throws Out Sept. 11 Case Confession as Obtained Through Torture
A military judge ruled to exclude Ammar al-Baluchi's 2007 confession from his 9/11 trial, citing torture and psychological conditioning during CIA detention. The ruling is a setback for prosecutors seeking to use the confession as evidence in the capital case.
Judge Blocks Trump From Retaliating Against Another Top Law Firm
A federal judge blocked Trump's executive order targeting Susman Godfrey, calling it a "shocking abuse of power." The order aimed to punish the firm for representing Dominion in a defamation case. The judge ruled that it violated the First and Fifth Amendments and temporarily halted the punishments while the case continues.
Law Firms Made Deals With Trump. Now He Wants More From Them
Major law firms agreed to provide $1 billion in free legal services to avoid retaliation from Trump, who had targeted them for working with his opponents. They thought the work would involve neutral causes like veterans' aid, but Trump now suggests using them for his own priorities—trade deals, coal industry revival, or even defending himself and allies. The vague, possibly handshake deals have caused internal backlash, with lawyers fearing ethical conflicts and resignations.
Judges Order Federal Agencies to Unfreeze Climate Money
Two federal judges ordered the release of hundreds of millions in climate and environmental funds frozen by the Trump administration. The rulings are setbacks for Trump’s efforts to block Biden-era grants. The judges found that the freezes were arbitrary and unjustified, allowing nonprofits to resume clean energy and infrastructure projects. The EPA plans to appeal.
Schumer Moves to Block Trump Picks for Two Key Prosecutor Positions
Democrats are using the Senate’s “blue slip” tradition, which lets home-state senators approve or block U.S. attorney nominees, to try to stop Trump’s picks for key federal prosecutor roles in New York. Senator Chuck Schumer plans to withhold his approval, likely blocking the nominations of Jay Clayton and Joseph Nocella Jr. The move tests a long-standing Senate custom that gives senators influence over appointments in their states, especially for roles like U.S. attorneys and marshals, even as partisan tensions shape its use.
C.I.A. Director’s Messages in Leaked Chat Were Deleted, Agency Says
American Oversight sued to preserve deleted messages from a Signal chat involving Trump officials discussing Yemen military actions. The CIA deleted the messages, citing changed settings, prompting concerns over violating federal records laws. The group plans further legal action to investigate other chats.
Inside Trump’s Plan to Halt Hundreds of Regulations
The Trump administration is speeding up deregulation across multiple sectors, using recent Supreme Court rulings to quickly repeal or halt enforcement of rules. This effort, led by Russell Vought, aims to reduce government oversight in areas like health, safety, and transportation, bypassing traditional legal processes. The move reflects a more aggressive deregulatory approach than in Trump’s first term.
China Halts Critical Exports as Trade War Intensifies
China has halted exports of key rare earth minerals and magnets, critical for industries like automotive and aerospace, in response to U.S. tariffs. This could disrupt global supply chains, especially for U.S. military contractors and manufacturers relying on these materials. The new export controls are still being set up, raising concerns over future shortages.
Trade War to Weaken Global Growth and Increase Inflation, I.M.F. Warns
IMF head Kristalina Georgieva warned that protectionism, especially U.S. trade policies, is slowing global growth and increasing inflation. She stressed that trade barriers disrupt economies, harming smaller markets and reducing productivity, while urging the preservation of open trade to avoid further damage.
Fear Shadows Many Children in Immigrant Families Trump's immigration enforcement has caused fear and anxiety among children of immigrant families, especially those with undocumented parents. Many kids worry about family separation and struggle with stress, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Teachers and parents report a significant emotional toll, as children fear their loved ones could be detained or deported at any time.
Trump Administration Will Freeze $2 Billion After Harvard Refuses Demands
The Trump administration froze $2.2 billion in grants after Harvard rejected demands to overhaul hiring, report foreign students, and cut diversity programs, calling them illegal and a threat to academic freedom. Harvard chose to defend its principles despite financial risks, marking a major clash over academic freedom and political pressure.
A Legal Battle Over Trump’s Threats to Public School Funding Has Begun
The Trump administration is threatening to cut federal funds for low-income students unless states end certain diversity programs, sparking lawsuits and pushback. Critics argue the policy misinterprets civil rights law, and the fight may reach the Supreme Court.
Trump Opens a Huge Marine Protected Zone to Commercial Fishing
Trump opened a protected Pacific marine reserve to commercial fishing, aiming to boost U.S. seafood dominance. Supporters call it an economic win. Environmentalists plan to sue, calling it a threat to marine life.
Mass Layoffs Hit Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
The Trump administration sent layoff notices to most Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) employees, potentially cutting 1,500 of 1,700 jobs. A court had blocked mass firings, but an appeals ruling allowed some to proceed. The cuts sparked union outrage and raised concerns about gutting the agency, which has returned $21 billion to consumers since 2011. A judge scheduled an emergency hearing to review the layoffs.
Court Scraps $8 Credit Card Late Fee Limit, at Consumer Bureau’s Request
The CFPB reversed its stance and backed banks in a lawsuit to eliminate a $8 cap on credit card late fees, which had been intended to save households $10 billion annually. A Texas judge sided with the banks, and consumer advocates criticized the decision as allowing excessive fees. This is part of broader rollbacks of consumer protections under the Trump administration.
DOGE Guts Agency That Organizes Community Service Programs
AmeriCorps placed most of its staff, including disaster response workers, on administrative leave following orders from Elon Musk’s cost-cutting team. The move affects 75% of employees and could impact disaster relief efforts. The cuts are part of broader efforts to reduce federal spending.
Unions Form Pro Bono Legal Network for Federal Workers Targeted by Trump
The A.F.L.-C.I.O. has launched the "Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network," a pro bono service aimed at supporting federal employees affected by job losses or threats under the Trump administration. Over 1,000 lawyers have been trained to assist these workers, providing legal support to challenge dismissals and other employment issues. The network, formed with unions and civil rights groups, aims to guide individuals through administrative boards and legal processes as the Trump administration continues efforts to downsize the civil service.
Arson Attack on Josh Shapiro Raises Fears About Threats to Politicians
High-profile attacks on U.S. leaders, including an arson attempt on Gov. Josh Shapiro, have heightened public fear, though research shows political violence remains rare. Officials across parties condemned the violence, while ongoing threats are driving some election workers to quit.
Embattled Congestion Pricing Program Gets Boost From Federal Judge
A federal judge, Lewis J. Liman, dismissed several arguments against New York City’s congestion pricing program, strengthening the state’s defense as legal battles continue. The toll, aimed at reducing traffic and raising transit funds, faces opposition from residents, unions, and trucking groups, but early data shows less traffic, more transit use, and steady business in Manhattan. Despite political pushback, especially from the Trump administration, the program remains active and under review.
Trump Administration Says It Will Take Over Renovation of Penn Station
The Trump administration is seizing control of Penn Station’s $7 billion renovation from the M.T.A., citing mismanagement. Governor Hochul welcomed the move, while critics see it as part of a feud over New York’s congestion pricing plan.
Adams’s Legal Debt Rises to $3 Million as Donors Fade Away
Mayor Eric Adams convinced the Trump administration to drop corruption charges but now faces over $3 million in legal debt. His popularity has declined, and donations to his defense fund have dropped. Accusations of a quid pro quo with Trump persist, and Adams has stayed silent on Trump-related issues. The city’s legal department also refused to represent him in a lawsuit filed by the City Council.
Hong Kong Suspends Packages to the U.S., Wading Into the Trade War
Hong Kong's postal service will stop sending packages to the U.S. starting April 27 in response to Trump's new tariffs on small shipments from China and Hong Kong. This move escalates the trade conflict between the U.S. and China, with Hong Kong criticizing the tariffs as unfair.
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