Directed Files Suit Against Unauthorized Internet

Directed Files Suit Against Unauthorized Internet Retailers
May 21, 2004 -- Vista, Calif. -- Directed Electronics Inc. announced it has filed lawsuits in the Federal District Court of Southern California against Remote Start Depot / The Neon Source and Etronics / Supreme Video, charging them with the unauthorized sale of products incorporating Directed’s patented technology.

“Directed Electronics has worked long and hard to develop its technology, brands and distribution relationships,” said KC Bean, Directed’s general counsel. “These Internet retailers are not authorized Directed dealers, and consumers buying from them do not have the benefit of Directed's product warranties. Consumers buying from unauthorized retailers also risk receiving an inferior product or experiencing problems with installation. This hurts Directed’s image in the marketplace and undermines many years of effort building products consumers want to buy and retailers want to sell. We seek the court’s injunction against further unauthorized sale of our products, and damages for any injury we have experienced.”

According to Directed President and CEO Jim Minarik, “Directed will continue to diligently pursue those who infringe our rights. These efforts help authorized retailers to conduct business on a level playing field and protect the consumer. Our message to other unauthorized Internet resellers is, you may be next!”