Don Henley's Lyrics Theft Case Dismissed After Judge Finds Evidence Withheld from Prosecutors
The Manhattan District Attorney's office has dismissed charges in the Don Henley lyrics theft case after the Eagles frontman disclosed approximately 6,000 pages of new evidence during the trial. Justice Curtis Farber ruled that Henley "manipulated" the DA's office by withholding crucial evidence.
Three defendants - rare books dealer Glenn Horowitz, former Rock & Roll Hall of Fame curator Craig Inciardi, and memorabilia seller Edward Kosinki - were accused of conspiracy to possess stolen property related to handwritten lyrics of "Hotel California" and other Eagles memorabilia.
Don Henley performing live on stage
Photo Credit: Michael Coghlan / CC by 2.0
The case unraveled when Henley and Eagles manager Irving Azoff waived their attorney-client privilege, revealing thousands of pages of communications that prosecutors say should have been disclosed earlier. These documents reportedly cast doubt on Henley's claims that the materials were stolen.
Scott Edelman, attorney for Kosinki, criticized the DA's office for being "blinded by the fame and fortune of a celebrity," suggesting the case would never have proceeded with a non-celebrity plaintiff.
While the criminal charges have been dropped, Henley's attorney Daniel Petrocelli maintains that the musician is still the case's "victim" and suggests potential civil litigation may follow.
Don Henley performing with guitar onstage
Beverly Hills Hotel with pink facade
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