Judge Drops Claims In Obama 'HOPE' Artist Vs. AP

NEW YORK (AP) -- A judge in New York has dismissed copyright lawsuits between an artist who created the Barack Obama "HOPE" image and The Associated Press.

Federal Judge Alvin Hellerstein said in a one-page order Tuesday that a "suggestion of settlement" led him to dismiss claims between Shepard Fairey and the AP. The judge said the claims could be reinstated within a month if either side requested.

Fairey sued the AP in 2009, claiming he didn't violate the copyright of the AP picture on which he based the "HOPE" image because he dramatically changed it. The AP countersued, saying the uncredited, uncompensated use of an AP photo violated copyright laws and was a threat to journalism.

Neither side has responded to messages seeking comment.

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