Labaton Sucharow LLP is Co-Lead Counsel in this lawsuit filed on behalf of a proposed class of Plaintiffs who purchased ocean freight services between the continental United States and Puerto Rico directly from Defendants, the providers of these services.

Plaintiffs allege that, between May 1, 2002 and April 17, 2008, Defendants, Horizon Lines, Sea Star Lines, Crowley Liner Services and Trailer Bridge, conspired to illegally fix the prices for the sea transportation of goods or persons between Puerto Rico and the continental United States. The case is pending before the Honorable Daniel Dominguez in the District of Puerto Rico.

In October 2008, four former Horizon Lines and Sea Star Line executives pleaded guilty for antitrust violations in the U.S. mainland-Puerto Rico maritime trade, and one Sea Star executive pleaded guilty to destroying evidence of price-fixing, specifically by destroying computer files sought by investigators when federal agents raided the company.

On June 12, 2009, Plaintiffs obtained a $20 million partial settlement with Horizon Lines. On January 15, 2010, Plaintiffs obtained a $13.75 million partial settlement with Crowley.  The proposed settlements require Court approval. Motions to Dismiss by the non-settling Defendants are still pending before the Court