L.I. Couple Files Trademark Application For 'Occupy Wall Street' Slogan

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Trying to cashing in on the Wall Street protests or just a smart business move?

A Long Island couple wants to trademark the slogan "Occupy Wall Street," and plaster it all over sweatshirts, t-shirts, bumper stickers and more.

Robert and Diane Maresca, of West Islip, plunked down $975 when they filed a trademark application with the U.S. Patent Office.

According to the Daily News, Robert Maresca is a member of Ironworkers Local 36. He has said that since the trademark was available for anyone to claim, he jumped at the opportunity, adding that if he didn't do it, someone else might have.

"It's important to keep it away from people who would try to use it for negative," he told the paper, stating that he would like some of his potential profits to go to protesters.

The Marescas say they're not in it for the money, but the capitalist move is leaving some demonstrators baffled.

The Occupy Wall Street movement is now in its 6th week and appears to be showing no signs of slowing down despite numerous clashes with police, arrests and complaints from city residents and neighbors.

Are they trying to profit from the slogan or just keep it away from others who may try to?  Share your thoughts in the comments section...