Understand Your Rights. Solve Your Legal Problems
A 52-year-old D.C. woman was convicted Tuesday by a Superior Court jury of felony-enhanced second-degree theft stemming from a 2024 incident at the Columbia Heights Target.
According to court records and prosecutors, Meredith Wilson stole more than $700 worth of merchandise, including jewelry, handbags, and household goods from the retail location on June 27, 2024.
Her conviction represents the first jury trial in the District of Columbia in more than a decade for a felony-enhanced second-degree theft charge.
Under D.C. law, individuals with two or more prior theft convictions may face enhanced felony charges.
Meredith Wilson had previously pleaded guilty to second-degree theft in 2017 and 2018, making her eligible for the mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison required upon conviction.
The case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jason B.A. McCullough and Maggie E. Sullivan. Sentencing is scheduled for July 15 before Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld.
LPRO Lawsuit: Levi & Korsinsky Investigates Open Lending Investors’ Claims
Ex-FBI Agent Sues James O’Keefe Over Alleged ‘Fake Date’ Sting
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP, a nationally recognized investor rights law firm, has filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of shareholders of Open Lending Corporation (NASDAQ: LPRO).
The lawsuit alleges that the company misled investors and failed to disclose key information about the declining value and underperformance of its loan portfolios.
The complaint applies to investors who acquired LPRO securities between February 24, 2022 and March 31, 2025, and focuses on a series of alleged misstatements by Open Lending and certain executives.
Specifically, the company is accused of overstating the effectiveness of its risk-based pricing models and underreporting losses tied to its 2021–2024 vintage loans.
According to court filings, Open Lending:
Misrepresented the true capabilities of its pricing models;
Failed to disclose that its 2021 and 2022 loans had fallen significantly in value;
Concealed underperformance in its 2023 and 2024 loan portfolios;
And issued misleading statements regarding its profit-share revenue.
These actions allegedly led to inflated stock prices, which later fell when the truth came to light—causing significant losses for shareholders.
Investors who purchased Open Lending stock during the class period and suffered financial harm have until June 30, 2025 to request appointment as Lead Plaintiff in the case.
The Lead Plaintiff is the investor chosen by the court to represent the class and oversee the litigation on behalf of other shareholders.
If you were affected, you may be eligible for compensation.
Or contact Levi & Korsinsky directly for a confidential consultation:
Joseph E. Levi, Esq. — jlevi@levikorsinsky.com
Phone — (212) 363-7500
Open Lending Corporation is a Texas-based fintech company founded in 2000, specializing in automated lending solutions for automotive lenders. Its core product, Lenders Protection, helps financial institutions offer risk-based auto loans to underserved borrowers. Known for its innovation in loan analytics and risk modeling, Open Lending went public in 2020 and has been repeatedly recognized as a top workplace and fast-growing company. Its mission is to make transportation more affordable through technology-driven lending.
Levi & Korsinsky LLP is a recognized leader in securities litigation, with a track record of recovering hundreds of millions of dollars for shareholders over the past two decades. With a dedicated team of over 70 professionals, the firm specializes in complex securities cases and has been featured in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report for seven consecutive years.
Morrison Foerster Advises on Ignite Visibility–Rallio Acquisition
Ex-FBI Agent Sues James O’Keefe Over Alleged ‘Fake Date’ Sting
Coaching Legal Leaders: A Conversation with Trinnie Houghton
Survivor Justice Center has named Morgan Lewis its 2025 Pro Bono Partner of the Year.
The national law firm was honored for its extensive work providing free legal services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, work that often happens behind the scenes but can be life-changing for those it touches.
Since 2016, Morgan Lewis attorneys have worked alongside the Survivor Justice Center on a range of critical matters, from helping clients secure restraining orders to navigating complex family law disputes.
The firm’s pro bono contributions have also extended into civil advocacy and community support, making legal protection more accessible for vulnerable individuals who often feel powerless in the system.
The award will be presented at the center’s annual Bridge to Justice Gala on May 15, held at the Taglyan Complex in Los Angeles.
Survivor Justice Center, based in California, provides wraparound services to survivors of abuse, including legal assistance, advocacy, and referrals to essential social services. Their partnership with law firms like Morgan Lewis allows the center to expand its reach.
Morgan Lewis provides critical legal support to those who need it most but often can’t afford it. Their commitment to justice and to protecting survivors and their children, continues to make a real difference.
Metrotel Launches Major Fiber Optic Expansion Across Argentina
Ex-FBI Agent Sues James O’Keefe Over Alleged ‘Fake Date’ Sting
Jamie Mannina spent years serving his country as an FBI agent, a Pentagon contractor, and a trusted national security professional. But one night out with the wrong person, he says, cost him everything.
In a lawsuit filed this week in federal court, Mannina accuses conservative media figure James O’Keefe and the O’Keefe Media Group of orchestrating a deceptive sting operation involving a fake online dating profile, hidden cameras, and edited videos meant to discredit him.
The case is already drawing national attention and it comes with public backing from Mannina’s attorney, Mark Zaid, who took to social media to denounce the sting as an abuse of undercover journalism tactics.
When you retain a lawyer, please have them contact me @JamesOKeefeIII. In the meantime, are you willing to accept service of Complaint? You sound ready to defend yourself, so let's move forward.
Btw, I represent many actual journalists & they're not concerned. https://t.co/G84UTvoj2t
— Mark S. Zaid (@MarkSZaidEsq) May 15, 2025
According to the complaint, Jamie Mannina matched with a woman on a dating app who claimed to be a liberal nurse. Over drinks and conversation, he shared what he thought were private political views, opinions that were secretly recorded.
The footage was later edited and published online by the O’Keefe Media Group, portraying Mannina as a “Top Pentagon Advisor” who allegedly spoke against Donald Trump and discussed military affairs.
Within days of the video’s release, Mannina was terminated from his position at Booz Allen Hamilton, a prominent defense contractor.
Zaid says the sting crossed the line from journalism into personal sabotage.
“There’s nothing illegal about using a dating app,” Zaid told reporters. “But when that deception is used to manipulate someone into damaging themselves and then publicly broadcast to ruin their career, that’s defamation. That’s fraud. And we’re going to hold them accountable.”
The lawsuit alleges defamation, false light invasion of privacy, fraudulent misrepresentation, and violations of the federal Wiretap Act.
It also challenges the portrayal of Mannina as a senior Pentagon official, arguing that his actual role was overstated to increase the viral impact of the videos.
James O’Keefe, best known for his controversial undercover video campaigns targeting liberal organizations and government agencies, has not publicly responded to the lawsuit.
In the past, he has defended his operations as legal and protected under First Amendment rights, noting that D.C. law allows for one-party consent in recordings.
To support Mannina’s legal battle, attorney Mark Zaid launched a GoFundMe campaign, calling on the public to help fund what he described as a fight against politically motivated deception and reputational harm.
“We continue to fight back against those who cannot tolerate & instead seek to punish different political viewpoints,” Zaid wrote on X.
“But we cannot do so without your help. Please consider donating to help our legal effort hold #JamesOKeefe accountable.”
Metrotel Secures Funding for Major Fiber Optic Expansion in Argentina
Tony Zacharski Joins Morgan Lewis from Dechert in Strategic Lateral Move
Ziploc Faces Lawsuit Over Microplastics in Food Storage Products
Elon Musk’s Neuralink Faces Prime Trial in UAE Over Ethics, Consent
Arizona Governor Signs 'Emily’s Law' After Death of Emily Pike Sparks Reform
Morrison Foerster has advised digital marketing agency Ignite Visibility on its acquisition of Rallio, a California-based platform specializing in social media, listings, and reputation management.
The deal, backed by private equity firm Mountaingate Capital, marks Ignite Visibility’s third acquisition since the firm partnered with Mountaingate in February 2023.
“This acquisition strengthens Ignite Visibility’s growing portfolio and reflects a clear investment in expanding its technological capabilities,” said Tyler Sewell, corporate partner at Morrison Foerster.
“It’s always rewarding to support clients as they move forward with growth strategies that bring new value to their customers.”
For Ignite Visibility, the addition of Rallio represents a significant step toward building a more robust, tech-driven service offering.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rallio into the Ignite Visibility offering,” said John Lincoln, CEO and co-founder.
“Rallio has built an impressive platform. By bringing Rallio into our ecosystem, we're expanding our technology capabilities and how we can provide value to our clients."
Rallio CEO Chuck Goetschel described the move as a pivotal moment for the company.
“Joining forces with Ignite Visibility marks an exciting new chapter for Rallio. Our mission has always been to help businesses manage their social media footprint at scale, while providing tools to increase efficiency and drive brand integrity.
Partnering with Ignite creates exciting new opportunities for our clients and team members. We're looking forward to scaling our impact together."
The Morrison Foerster team was led by Denver corporate partner Tyler Sewell, with support from associates Patrick Reintjes and Dylan Moore. Tax considerations were handled by Los Angeles partner Dave Sturgeon.
Rallio is a social media management platform based in Irvine, California. Founded in 2013, it helps franchises and multi-location businesses manage social media, online reviews, and business listings from a single dashboard. Known for its AI-driven tools and user-friendly design, Rallio has been recognized as a top franchise supplier and tech innovator.
Morrison Foerster is a leading global law firm with over 1,000 lawyers across 17 offices worldwide. Known for its work in technology, life sciences, and finance, the firm provides strategic legal counsel in areas including M&A, litigation, tax, and intellectual property. MoFo is also recognized for its strong commitment to diversity and pro bono service.
Metrotel Secures Funding for Fiber Optic Expansion in Argentina
Trinnie Houghton on Coaching the Next Generation of Legal Leaders
Arizona’s “Emily’s Law”: Gov. Katie Hobbs Signs Child Abuse Reform Bill
As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, transforms workplaces, and filters into our daily lives, one question is looming large in courtrooms and legislative halls alike: Who regulates the machines?
From ChatGPT writing legal memos to facial recognition software influencing criminal investigations, the explosive rise of AI has created a regulatory vacuum that lawmakers around the world are now scrambling to fill.
The impact is far-reaching, not just for developers and corporations, but for legal professionals, human rights advocates, and ordinary citizens affected by AI-driven decisions.
Unlike data privacy, where the GDPR set a global standard, AI regulation is currently fragmented.
The European Union has taken the lead with its AI Act, passed in early 2025, which categorizes AI systems based on risk and imposes strict compliance requirements on "high-risk" applications, including biometric surveillance and predictive policing.
In the United States, however, the federal approach has been slower and more piecemeal.
While agencies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) have issued guidance on AI use in hiring and advertising, there is no comprehensive national framework.
Instead, states are stepping in. California’s SB-1047, signed into law earlier this year, now requires companies developing large language models to implement "safety guardrails" and undergo independent risk assessments.
Meanwhile, Illinois and New York are expanding their biometric privacy laws to address AI-powered facial recognition systems.
For legal practitioners, this patchwork regulatory environment presents both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, clients across industries, from healthcare to finance are seeking counsel on how to deploy AI tools without running afoul of anti-discrimination laws, intellectual property protections, or cybersecurity standards.
On the other hand, courts are grappling with how to apply existing laws to new AI-related harms.
Can an AI system be held liable for defamation? Who’s responsible when an autonomous vehicle causes a fatal accident? Does using AI in criminal sentencing violate due process?
In the absence of clear statutory guidance, judges are increasingly relying on analogies to established doctrines, but those analogies are starting to wear thin.
At the heart of the regulatory debate is not just what AI can do, but what it should be allowed to do.
Bias in AI systems, particularly those trained on flawed or non-representative data, is a well-documented problem. From mortgage approvals to parole recommendations, algorithmic decisions can reinforce existing inequalities or introduce new ones.
But proving bias, especially when the model’s inner workings are opaque or proprietary, is a legal minefield.
Several lawsuits are now testing this frontier. In February, a class-action suit filed in Washington State alleged that an AI hiring tool systematically excluded older applicants in violation of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA).
The defendant, a major tech recruiter, has denied the claims but acknowledged the software lacked age-based bias screening.
In Congress, there’s a growing push for a nationwide framework to govern artificial intelligence.
One proposal, the Algorithmic Accountability Act, reintroduced in 2025, would require companies to examine how automated decisions might lead to discrimination, privacy violations, or other forms of harm.
Still, with deep political divides over how to handle tech regulation, the path forward remains uncertain.
The legal world, however, isn’t standing still. Bar associations across the country have launched new initiatives focused on emerging technologies.
Law schools are weaving digital ethics and machine learning impacts into their core curricula.
And firms, particularly those handling employment law, intellectual property, or product liability, are investing in specialized knowledge.
For today’s attorneys, understanding how these technologies affect real-world outcomes is becoming a core part of competent legal practice. It’s as essential now as knowing the rules of evidence or the structure of a contract.
As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in daily life, from hiring decisions and healthcare diagnostics to criminal sentencing and credit approvals: the legal system can no longer afford to lag behind.
That means developing new legal standards, rethinking liability when decisions are made by machines, and confronting complex questions about agency and responsibility in a digital age.
It’s not just about catching up anymore; it’s about keeping pace with a technology that learns, adapts, and impacts human lives in real time.
The EU’s AI Act is poised to become a global benchmark, while U.S. states are pushing forward their own regulations. But without a clear set of rules, lawyers are often left to apply old laws to situations the law was never designed to handle.
Ziploc Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Microplastics in Packaging
Texas House Approves $315M Bill to Strengthen Early Reading and Math
Florida’s New Stem Cell Law Raises Questions About Experimental Therapies
Neuralink, the brain-computer interface company founded by Elon Musk, has launched its first clinical trial outside the United States. The study is taking place in Abu Dhabi, in partnership with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.
Known as the UAE-PRIME trial, the initiative is designed to help individuals with severe motor and speech impairments communicate and control devices using only their thoughts.
Neuralink is partnering with UAE and Cleveland Clinic! https://t.co/HeEufumqoc
— gorklon rust (@elonmusk) May 15, 2025
Neuralink’s device is a small brain implant that records neural activity and translates it into digital signals. For patients who can no longer move or speak, the technology offers a new way to interact with the world.
This trial will explore how individuals with conditions like ALS, spinal cord injuries, or stroke-related paralysis may regain the ability to communicate by thinking: no keyboard, no speech required.
“For people who’ve lost their voice or movement, this could mean getting their independence back,” said a Neuralink spokesperson.
Abu Dhabi has become a growing center for global healthcare innovation, particularly in the field of medical technology.
According to Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the collaboration aligns with the region’s goal of attracting ethically guided, cutting-edge research.
“This partnership puts us at the forefront of next-generation medicine,” Mr. Al Mansoori said.
The UAE’s efficient regulatory structure and strong healthcare infrastructure made it an ideal host for Neuralink’s international debut.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has made history as the first hospital outside North America to conduct a Neuralink trial. Known for its expertise in neurology and neuroscience, the hospital will oversee the trial’s implementation and patient care.
Dr. Jorge Guzman, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, called the initiative a significant milestone.
“This is about restoring dignity and rewriting what’s possible in neurorehabilitation,” Dr. Guzman said.
In previous U.S. trials, Neuralink successfully implanted its device in patients, one of whom was able to move a cursor on a screen using only thought.
The UAE-PRIME trial represents the next phase, testing the technology in a global context, with local support and clinical oversight.
With neurological disorders on the rise, experts say brain-computer interfaces could soon play a central role in restoring lost functions and improving quality of life.
Participants in the trial will go through a multi-stage process: evaluation, implantation, and long-term follow-up.
All stages will be supervised by top neurologists and overseen by the Department of Health to ensure ethical and medical compliance.
FTC Orders Cerebral to Refund Millions Over Subscription Scandal
Metrotel Launches Massive Fiber Optic Expansion in Argentina
Clifford Chance has advised IDB Invest on a $50 million secured A/B loan to C.P.S. Comunicaciones S.A.U. (Metrotel), supporting the expansion of fiber optic infrastructure across Argentina.
The financing, which includes the participation of Itaú Unibanco, is expected to significantly improve access to high-speed telecommunications services nationwide.
The first disbursement took place in February 2025, marking a milestone in Metrotel’s broader mission to enhance digital connectivity throughout Argentina.
"This initiative aims to improve the country's telecommunications infrastructure, which is a fundamental step in Argentina's digital transformation and economic development," said Sebastián Bardengo, CEO of Metrotel.
The company plans to extend its fiber network to underserved communities, offering more reliable internet to both businesses and consumers.
The deal is backed by a set of guarantees from Argentine and cross-border guarantors. Citibank N.A. and its Argentine branch are acting as collateral agents, overseeing offshore and onshore security, respectively.
Clifford Chance’s team on the transaction was led by partner Jessia Springsteen, with support from law clerk Daniela Hernandez and associate Phil Reens.
The financing highlights rising investor confidence in Argentina’s telecom and technology sectors and reflects the ongoing role of international law firms and multilateral banks in advancing infrastructure across Latin America.
Metrotel is an Argentine telecommunications company that has been providing services to leading businesses in the country for over 30 years. The company offers a range of solutions, including dedicated internet, data links, cloud services, and telephony. With a robust infrastructure, Metrotel operates an extensive fiber optic network spanning more than 8,000 kilometers across major metropolitan areas such as Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Rosario, and Neuquén. Committed to innovation and customer satisfaction, Metrotel delivers scalable and reliable services tailored to the needs of various business
Clifford Chance is a global law firm with over a century of history and a presence in 23 countries through 34 offices. A member of the prestigious Magic Circle, the firm is recognized for its deep expertise in banking, corporate law, finance, dispute resolution, and tax. It advises a broad spectrum of clients, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, governments, and not-for-profits by combining international best practices with local market insight. Known for its collaborative culture and forward-thinking approach, Clifford Chance delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions across every major industry and sector.
Latham & Watkins Advises on Currenta’s €1B Bond and Credit Deal
Baker McKenzie Guides Arch Capital on Manila Data Center Investment
D.C. AG Brian Schwalb Sues Kenneth Brewer for Alleged Nonprofit Fraud
Arizona Passes "Emily’s Law" in Honor of Emily Pike, Backed by Gov. Hobbs
Texas House Approves $315M Plan to Improve Early Reading and Math Skills
Latham & Watkins has advised Germany-based Currenta Group on a landmark €1 billion bond issuance, marking the chemical park operator’s first foray into international capital markets.
The transaction included the issuance of senior secured notes split across two tranches: fixed-rate notes bearing 5.500% interest and maturing in 2030, and floating-rate notes maturing in 2032.
Both were issued under New York law via Rule 144A and Regulation S and will be listed on the Official List of The International Stock Exchange.
The bond deal was accompanied by a €185 million super senior credit facility and an €80 million super senior guarantee facility, both designed to reinforce Currenta’s financial resilience and enhance its operational flexibility.
According to those familiar with the transaction, proceeds from the issuance will go toward refinancing existing debt and supporting shareholder distributions, reflecting a broader effort to optimize the group’s capital structure while returning value to investors.
Latham’s team brought together experts from its capital markets, finance, and tax practices.
The deal was led by debt capital markets partners Alexander Lentz and Rüdiger Malaun, alongside banking and finance partner Alexandra Hagelüken. Counsel Gregory Walker and Cora Grannemann provided key transactional support, with additional assistance from associates Isabel Willius, Laura Neumann, Kate Zhu, and Anastasia Dressler.
On the tax side, partner Ulf Kieker and associate Manuela Minsel advised on structuring matters, ensuring cross-border compliance and efficiency.
Currenta Group is a leading German industrial services provider that operates CHEMPARK - one of the largest chemical sites in Europe, located in Leverkusen, Dormagen, and Krefeld-Uerdingen. The company offers infrastructure, utilities, logistics, waste management, and safety services to the chemical industry. Headquartered in Leverkusen, Currenta is owned by Macquarie asset management clients and employs around 3,400 people.
Latham & Watkins, founded in 1934, is a global law firm with more than 3,000 lawyers across major business and financial centers. The firm advises top companies, investors, and institutions on high-stakes transactions, regulatory matters, and litigation. Known for its collaborative culture and deep industry knowledge, Latham delivers practical, strategic legal solutions worldwide.
Baker McKenzie Advises Arch Capital on Manila Data Center Deal
Goodwin Advises on Chequers Capital Fund XVIII’s €1.2B Closing
Coaching Legal Leaders: In Conversation with Trinnie Houghton
Texas House Passes $315M Bill to Boost Early Reading and Math
Governor Katie Hobbs on Tuesday signed “Emily’s Law,” a measure that establishes a new Turquoise Alert system aimed at helping locate missing Native Americans across the state.
The legislation comes in the wake of a tragedy that shook the San Carlos Apache Tribe and reverberated far beyond.
In late January, 14-year-old Emily Pike, a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, disappeared from a state-licensed group home in Mesa.
For more than a week, her absence went unreported to her family. By the time her mother was notified, critical hours had already been lost.
Several weeks later, Emily’s body was discovered in a desolate stretch of desert near Globe, over 100 miles from where she was last seen.
Emily's death and the delay in recognizing she was missing, sparked outrage, grief, and renewed scrutiny of how Arizona responds when Indigenous children vanish.
The silence surrounding her disappearance struck a painful chord in tribal communities long accustomed to systemic indifference.
State lawmakers responded by passing a bill aimed at preventing future tragedies.
The measure, now known as Emily’s Law - won unanimous approval in both chambers and establishes a Turquoise Alert system to help locate missing Indigenous people across the state.
Modeled after AMBER and Silver Alerts, the Turquoise Alert will be activated when a Native American under the age of 65 is reported missing under suspicious or dangerous circumstances. The goal: to mobilize law enforcement and the public quickly, before precious time is lost.
Arizona is now one of several states to introduce an alert system specifically for missing Indigenous people.
Others, like New Mexico and North Dakota, have implemented similar systems named after culturally significant items or symbols.
Advocates say the name “Turquoise” was chosen for its spiritual and cultural resonance within Native communities.
For years, Indigenous leaders have called attention to the disproportionately high number of Native people who vanish with little media coverage or urgency from authorities.
According to the Urban Indian Health Institute, Arizona ranks among the top states for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
Emily’s case laid bare just how broken the system can be. Not only did it take days before anyone notified her family she was missing, but advocates say the response lacked urgency from the start.
Governor Hobbs, flanked by tribal elders and lawmakers at the bill signing, said the new law is a commitment to do better. “Emily should be alive today,” she said. “This law is for her. And for every child like her who never got the attention they deserved.”
The fallout from Emily’s death isn’t limited to the alert system. Lawmakers are also reviewing oversight of state-licensed group homes after reports that other Indigenous children in state care have also gone missing without immediate notification to families or authorities.
In the case of Emily Pike, the delay in reporting her disappearance may have cost investigators crucial time.
By the time her body was found, weeks had passed and with them, much of the evidence that might have led to her killer.
The FBI and the San Carlos Apache Tribe have each offered $75,000 rewards for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.
So far, no one has been charged in Emily’s death.
For Native families across Arizona, Emily’s Law is being seen as a small but meaningful victory, a sign that their voices are finally being heard.
“This bill doesn’t bring Emily back,” said one tribal advocate outside the Capitol, holding a photo of the teenager. “But maybe it brings the next child home.”
The Impact of Domestic Violence Allegations on Spousal Support Awards
Texas Bail Amendment: What Gov. Abbott’s 2025 Push Means for Defendants
Ziploc Faces Lawsuit Over Microplastics in Household Products
Menendez Brothers Resentenced: New Evidence Leads to 2025 Ruling
Texas House Passes $315M Bill to Boost Early Reading and Math Skills
