File-Sharing Fine Slashed, Trial Continues

While current reports claim colleges have blocked access to file-sharing sites, Jammie Thomas-Rasset, who was originally fined $2 million for sharing some 2000 songs. While she was only sued for 24 of them, her original $200,000 fine was increased to $2 million when she was retried in 2009. Following an appeal, Ms. Thomas-Rasset's fine was dropped to a mere $54,000, which she claims is still unreasonable and impossible for her to pay.

Judge Michael Davis who heard the appeal wrote, "The need for deterrence cannot justify a $2m verdict..." Some experts called his handling of the case "unprecedented," but Judge Davis did not throw-out the jury's ruling entirely.

The RIAA had seven days to accept the verdict or challenge, and offered Jammie Thomas-Rasset a $25,000 settlement, which she refused, saying she would accept no offer which forced her to pay any amount. A third trial appears likely.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010