A Texas-based creator is taking a stand against online counterfeiters allegedly infringing on his intellectual property. Michael Salcedo, the plaintiff, filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on December 5, 2024, targeting several partnerships and unincorporated associations identified in Schedule A of the filing. These defendants are accused of selling unauthorized products that exploit Salcedo's copyrighted animated series known as "Alphabet Lore."
The lawsuit alleges that the defendants have been using fully interactive e-commerce stores to sell products that unlawfully incorporate Salcedo's federally registered copyrights. The case highlights the widespread issue of online copyright infringement and counterfeiting, particularly from foreign entities operating under aliases to conceal their identities and avoid liability. According to the complaint, these entities are primarily based in jurisdictions with lax intellectual property enforcement systems, such as China.
Salcedo's Alphabet Lore series has gained significant popularity since its inception, leading to an increase in counterfeit products being sold online. The plaintiff claims that these unauthorized sellers use deceptive tactics to mislead consumers into believing they are purchasing genuine Alphabet Lore products. These tactics include using similar packaging and advertising strategies that mimic those of authorized retailers.
The complaint details how defendants have set up e-commerce stores targeting U.S. consumers, including residents of Illinois, by offering shipping within the country and accepting payments in U.S. dollars. This strategic targeting is part of a broader effort by counterfeiters to profit from Salcedo's creative work without authorization or compensation.
Salcedo is seeking both injunctive relief and monetary damages through this legal action. He requests that the court enjoin the defendants from further infringing activities and order them to deliver all infringing goods for destruction. Additionally, he seeks actual damages or statutory damages as allowed under copyright law, along with attorneys' fees and costs associated with pursuing this case.
Representing Michael Salcedo are attorneys Sofia Quezada Hastings and Matthew De Preter from Aronberg Goldgehn Davis & Garmisa law firm based in Chicago. The case has been assigned Case No. 24-cv-12519 but does not list specific judges involved at this stage.