Unexpected End to Eagles Lyrics Theft Case: Charges Dropped Mid-Trial
In a dramatic turn of events, New York prosecutors have dropped all charges against three collectibles experts previously accused of conspiring to sell stolen handwritten lyrics of the Eagles' iconic song "Hotel California." The decision came unexpectedly in the middle of the trial, following the late disclosure of 6,000 pages of communications involving Eagles co-founder Don Henley, his attorneys, and associates.
The case, which centered on the disputed ownership of the lyrics to several Eagles hits, was dismissed after it was revealed that defense lawyers had not been provided with crucial information that could have influenced their cross-examination of Henley and other key witnesses. Assistant Manhattan District Attorney Aaron Ginandes acknowledged the oversight, stating that the defense should have had the opportunity to explore these communications earlier in the trial.
The defendants, rare books dealer Glenn Horowitz, former Rock & Roll Hall of Fame curator Craig Inciardi, and memorabilia seller Edward Kosinski, were accused of attempting to sell the lyrics despite knowing their questionable provenance. They maintained their innocence throughout, arguing that they were rightful owners of the pages, which they claimed were not stolen.
The abrupt dismissal of the case has raised questions about the prosecution's handling of the matter, with defense attorneys accusing the district attorney's office of being swayed by Henley's celebrity status. Judge Curtis Farber criticized the use of attorney-client privilege to withhold information, suggesting that witnesses and their lawyers manipulated the privilege to hide potentially damaging evidence.
Henley, who testified that he never authorized the sale or gift of the handwritten lyrics, expressed disappointment through his attorney, Dan Petrocelli, and indicated plans to pursue civil action. On the other hand, the defense celebrated the dismissal as a vindication of their clients' rights and hinted at evaluating their next steps.
