Engineer sentenced for 15-year kickback scheme, fraud

Engineer sentenced for 15-year kickback scheme, fraud

California DFPI Enforcement Actions Summary - January 2026

The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) issued a summary of enforcement and non-enforcement actions taken in January 2026. These actions include citations, desist and refrain orders, consent orders, and accusations related to violations of financial laws, including mortgage lending and securities regulations.

New York Encourages RSV Vaccination Amidst High Cases

The New York State Department of Health is strongly encouraging eligible residents to get vaccinated against RSV due to persistently high case numbers and hospitalizations. The notice highlights the availability of vaccines and monoclonal antibodies for various age groups and risk factors, emphasizing their effectiveness in preventing severe illness.

Florida Tornado Emergency Declaration Renewal

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has renewed the state of emergency for North Florida due to tornado damage. Executive Order 26-34 extends Executive Order 24-94 for sixty days, continuing state support for recovery efforts in affected counties.

ESMA Supervisory Briefing on AAR Representativeness Obligation

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a supervisory briefing clarifying expectations for counterparties regarding the active account requirement (AAR) representativeness obligation. The briefing provides guidance on identifying relevant subcategories, reporting trades, and includes an example of compliance.

Delaware Supreme Court Reverses Breach of Contract Dismissal

The Delaware Supreme Court reversed a lower court's dismissal of breach of contract claims filed by insurers against Blackbaud, Inc. The insurers, acting as subrogees and assignees, alleged Blackbaud failed to protect client data after a ransomware attack. The court found the amended complaints adequately pled a breach of contract claim.

Bardy Diagnostics v. iRhythm Technologies - Patent Infringement Lawsuit

The District Court of Delaware issued a memorandum resolving disputed claim constructions in a patent infringement lawsuit between Bardy Diagnostics and iRhythm Technologies. The court held a Markman hearing on January 15, 2026, to interpret claim terms across eight asserted patents involved in the dispute.

SpecialtyCare v. Cigna Healthcare - Motion to Dismiss Recommendation

A US District Court has recommended granting Cigna Healthcare's motion to dismiss a complaint filed by SpecialtyCare, Inc. and affiliated physician groups. The lawsuit concerned Cigna's alleged failure to pay over $1.3 million in arbitration awards related to the No Surprises Act. The court found the plaintiffs' claims were not properly before it.

Rojas-Espinoza v. Bondi - Rehearing En Banc Ordered

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has ordered a rehearing en banc for the case Rojas-Espinoza v. Bondi. This action vacates the previous panel's order and indicates a significant reconsideration of the case's legal issues. The court's decision to rehear the case en banc suggests potential implications for immigration law and appellate procedure.

USA v. Alex Ruiz - Criminal Conviction Affirmed

The Ninth Circuit affirmed Alex Ruiz's conviction for transporting illegal aliens. The court held that the district court did not abuse its discretion in admitting evidence of a prior conviction for the same crime under Federal Rule of Evidence 404(b) and that Ruiz's constitutional arguments were forfeited.

Ratha v. Rubicon Resources LLC - Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act Retroactivity

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a district court's denial of a motion for relief from summary judgment in a human trafficking case. The court held that an amendment to the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act, clarifying civil liability for attempted benefit from human trafficking, has retroactive effect.

Competition Bureau Expands Real Estate Commission Rules Investigation

The Competition Bureau has expanded its investigation into real estate commission rules to include Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), seeking a court order to gather information. The probe examines whether GVR and the Canadian Real Estate Association's commission rules violate the Competition Act by potentially discouraging competition or leading to higher costs for buyers and sellers.

California AG Reviews Warner Bros. Mergers for Antitrust Concerns

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a statement reviewing proposed mergers involving Warner Bros., Paramount, and Netflix for potential antitrust concerns. The review focuses on market concentration, competition, worker impact, and creative diversity within the media and entertainment industry.

US Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump Tariffs

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled President Trump's imposition of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) illegal. California Attorney General Rob Bonta celebrated the decision, which is expected to restore order to markets and potentially lead to the return of funds to harmed parties. The tariffs were projected to cost California's economy $25 billion and over 64,000 jobs.

Texas AG Sues Sanofi for Illegal Kickbacks to Doctors

The Texas Attorney General has filed a lawsuit against Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC for allegedly providing illegal kickbacks to healthcare providers through "Free Nurse Program" and "Support Services Program." The state is seeking over $1,000,000 in monetary relief and an injunction.

Texas AG Sues Shein for Toxic Products and Data Exposure

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued global fast-fashion retailer Shein for allegedly selling toxic products and exposing consumer data to the Chinese Communist Party. The lawsuit seeks civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, or $250,000 for violations targeting elderly consumers.

Texas AG Sues Company Over Chest Binders Sold to Minors

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Lola Olivia, Inc., an online retailer, for allegedly selling chest binders to young girls without disclosing significant health risks. The lawsuit seeks over $1,000,000 in monetary relief, including civil penalties, and injunctive relief.

Garante Privacy Sanctions eCampus, Rejects Pescara Body Cams

The Italian Data Protection Authority (Garante Privacy) has sanctioned the University eCampus with a €50,000 fine for unlawfully processing biometric data using facial recognition for online course attendance verification. Additionally, the Garante has prohibited the municipality of Pescara from using body cameras for local police due to risks of data transfer to non-EU countries.

EU Official Journal L Series Daily View - February 20, 2026

The EU Official Journal L series published several regulations on February 20, 2026. These include amendments to regulations concerning statistical information collection by the European Central Bank, emissions type-approval for heavy-duty vehicles, and import registration for sodium benzoate from China.

Trump Administration Finalizes Trade Deal with Indonesia

The Trump Administration has finalized a trade agreement with Indonesia, eliminating over 99% of tariff barriers on U.S. products and addressing non-tariff barriers. The deal includes approximately $33 billion in commercial deals for U.S. agriculture, aerospace, and energy sectors.

Florida Bar Rule Amendments - Chapter 3

The Florida Supreme Court has adopted amendments to Chapter 3 of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar, as proposed by The Florida Bar. These amendments, effective February 16, 2026, modify rules concerning the Board of Governors, general procedures, and grievance committee actions.

Heath v. State - Appeal of Post-Conviction Relief Denial

The Florida Supreme Court affirmed the denial of Ronald Palmer Heath's post-conviction relief and habeas corpus petition. His execution is scheduled for February 10, 2026.

Florida Bar Rules Amendment Correction

The Florida Supreme Court has issued a notice of correction for an opinion filed on December 18, 2025, regarding amendments to the Rules Regulating the Florida Bar. The correction involves a minor wording change on page 11, subsection (b) Notice to Clients.

Florida Supreme Court Vacates Death Sentence, Upholds Murder Conviction

The Florida Supreme Court vacated Leo Louis Kaczmar, III's death sentence while upholding his murder conviction. The court reversed the grant of penalty-phase relief but affirmed other aspects of the circuit court's order and denied Kaczmar's petition for habeas corpus relief.

In re Lynex Habeas Corpus - Criminal

The California Court of Appeal, 2nd Appellate District, has issued an opinion in the habeas corpus case In re Tommie Lawson Lynex. The case filing date was March 10, 2025, and the opinion is now available.

US-Indonesia Trade Agreement Implementation

The US and Indonesia have confirmed their commitment to implementing a reciprocal trade agreement signed by Presidents Trump and Subianto. This agreement aims to strengthen economic security, promote growth, and foster global prosperity between the two nations.

White House Statement on 81st Anniversary of Battle of Iwo Jima

The White House issued a statement commemorating the 81st anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. The statement reflects on the historical significance of the battle, the sacrifices made by American servicemen, and the enduring legacy of courage and resolve.

Court of Appeal orders counsel for Racial Justice Act claim

The California Court of Appeal has ordered a trial court to vacate its denial of a habeas corpus petition filed under the Racial Justice Act. The appellate court found the trial court erred in its application of standards for appointing counsel and addressing successive petitions, directing the lower court to reconsider the case.

In re Parental Rights to M.A.P. & M.M.B.-P. - Washington Court of Appeals

The Washington Court of Appeals Division III has issued an opinion in the case In the Matter of the Parental Rights to M.A.P. & M.M.B.-P. The opinion was filed on February 19, 2026, under docket number 40808-6. This is an informational update on a court proceeding.

Scott v. Amazon.com, Inc. - Washington Supreme Court Opinion

The Washington Supreme Court has issued its opinion in Scott v. Amazon.com, Inc., filed on February 19, 2026. This case concerns legal issues related to consumer transactions and online retail platforms.

MHRA Approves Zanidatamab for HER2+ Biliary Tract Cancer

The MHRA has approved zanidatamab (Ziihera) for adult patients with HER2-positive biliary tract cancer that has progressed after previous treatment. This approval provides a new treatment option for a specific patient population with an unmet clinical need.

SEC v. Cutter Financial Group, LLC and Jeffrey Cutter - Investment Adviser Fiduciary Duty Breaches

The SEC announced a final judgment against investment adviser Jeffrey Cutter and Cutter Financial Group, LLC for breaches of fiduciary duties. The judgment orders civil penalties totaling $150,000 and requires client notification and injunctions against future violations.

SEC charges North Texas brothers in real estate fraud

The SEC has charged two brothers and their companies in North Texas for allegedly conducting a real estate offering fraud, raising over $12 million through misrepresentations. The SEC seeks permanent injunctions, disgorgement, and civil penalties.

SEC Obtains Default Judgment Against Bluesky Eagle Capital Management Ltd

The SEC has obtained a final default judgment against Bluesky Eagle Capital Management Ltd. for making misrepresentations in its Form ADV filing. The judgment includes a permanent injunction and a civil penalty of $1,182,254.

EU Investigates Shein Under Digital Services Act

The European Commission has opened formal proceedings against Shein under the Digital Services Act. The investigation will focus on the sale of illegal products, addictive design features, and the transparency of recommender systems. This action follows concerns about potential violations of EU digital regulations.

SEC v. Gasarch - Securities Fraud Enforcement Appeal

The US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit largely affirmed a district court's decision in an SEC civil enforcement action against Zhiying Yvonne Gasarch and others for securities fraud. The appellants participated in a scheme to inflate stock prices through misleading hype and artificial inflation, leading to significant penalties.

Audit of Federal Prison Industries Financial Statements FY 2025

The Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General has released an audit report for the Federal Prison Industries, Inc. (FPI) financial statements for Fiscal Year 2025. The report, number 26-028, was posted on February 19, 2026, and includes two recommendations.

State AG Launches Public Integrity Unit for Misuse of Public Funds

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has launched a new Public Integrity Unit to investigate and prosecute corruption involving public funds and legislative appropriations. The unit will review funds distributed to nonprofits and NGOs from the past two fiscal years, focusing on potential bribery, embezzlement, and misuse of public money.

Willey v. Phoenix Rehabilitation and Health Services - Summary Judgment Order

The Delaware Superior Court granted summary judgment for both parties in Willey v. Phoenix Rehabilitation and Health Services, Inc. The court granted Phoenix Rehabilitation's motion regarding punitive damages and granted Willey's motion concerning three of Phoenix Rehabilitation's affirmative defenses.

Virginia Health Officials Investigating Measles Cases

Virginia health officials are investigating two confirmed measles cases in Northern Virginia. The department has identified potential exposure sites and is advising individuals who may have been exposed to report their exposure and check their vaccination status.

Jamie Smith Environmental Permit Application Advertisement

The Environment Agency has published a notice regarding an environmental permit application submitted by Jamie Smith for a site in Henley, England. This notice serves as an advertisement for the application, informing the public about the details and the process for submitting comments.

Companies House Low Value Contract Terms and Conditions

Companies House has published guidance on its low-value contract terms and conditions, applicable to contracts valued below £12,000 including VAT. This guidance outlines the standard terms for such agreements.

ESMA Consultation on MAR Guidelines for Inside Information Disclosure Delay

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) is consulting on proposed amendments to its Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) guidelines concerning the delay of inside information disclosure. The changes aim to align with the Listing Act, reduce administrative burdens for issuers, and clarify requirements. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback by April 29, 2026.

ESMA Fines Regis-TR €1.37M for EMIR/SFTR Breaches

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has fined Regis-TR €1.37 million for seven breaches of EMIR and SFTR regulations. This is ESMA's first enforcement action for SFTR breaches and the highest fine imposed on a trade repository, requiring Regis-TR to cease ongoing infringements.

ESMA Publishes Sovereign Bond Deferrals List

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a list of supplementary deferrals for sovereign bonds under MiFIR, effective May 4, 2026. These deferrals allow for the omission of trade volume publication for medium-sized trades on liquid bonds until the end of the trading day.

A Ventura fined €20M for GDPR infringement

The Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) has initiated a sanctioning procedure against A VENTURA EN TRAMPOLINES S.L. for alleged infringements of the GDPR. The company has been fined €20 million and previously ordered to adapt its user consent form within one month, a deadline it failed to meet.

Non-profit Director Arraigned for Rental Assistance Fraud

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell announced the arraignment of Pipheak Sun, former Director of Housing and Consumer Education for Lowell non-profit Community Teamwork, Inc. Sun is accused of misappropriating over $280,000 in rental assistance funds intended for families facing housing crises. A scheduling conference is set for March 10.

State AGs Sue Trump Admin Over Energy Funding Termination

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell, joined by 12 other state AGs, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration. The suit challenges the termination of billions of dollars in congressionally mandated energy and infrastructure funding, impacting projects nationwide.

Ofcom Telecoms and Pay-TV Complaints Q3 2025

Ofcom has published its latest figures for complaints received about major UK landline, mobile, broadband, and pay-TV providers for Q3 2025. The report indicates that complaint levels remained similar to the previous quarter across all service types, with specific providers identified as generating the most and fewest complaints.

California AG Promotes Data Deletion Tool for Consumers

California Attorney General Rob Bonta is promoting the state's new online tool, DROP, which allows consumers to request data deletion from over 500 data brokers. Over 225,000 Californians have already signed up for the tool, which becomes mandatory for data brokers to comply with by August 1, 2026.