A legal battle is heating up in Los Angeles over the control of a progressive news outlet called Knock LA. Journalists Cerise Castle and Ben Camacho have filed a federal lawsuit against Ground Game LA, the nonprofit organization that created the outlet. They claim that Ground Game has been using their work without permission, even after blocking their access to the site.
The dispute began when Castle and Camacho sought to separate Knock LA from Ground Game due to concerns about editorial control and working conditions. They allege that Ground Game continued to profit from their articles, including Castle’s viral series on gangs within the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, even after cutting them off from the site. They are seeking nearly $5 million in damages for copyright infringement and other claims.
In response, Ground Game LA has countersued, accusing Castle and Camacho of attempting to hijack Knock LA. They claim the journalists took the outlet’s trademarked name and its confidential mailing list, misrepresenting themselves as the legitimate leaders of the organization. Ground Game argues that their actions were part of a scheme to take control of the news outlet.
This legal conflict reflects broader tensions in Los Angeles’ leftist media landscape, especially as the city’s political climate shifts. Ground Game LA has been influential in local politics, supporting progressive candidates and initiatives, while Knock LA has garnered attention for its investigative reporting.
As the lawsuits unfold, both sides express regret that their disagreements have escalated to this point. The outcome could have significant implications for independent journalism in the area, especially for those who rely on grassroots media to highlight social issues.