Reckless Ben, real name Benjamin Schneider, announced that he is now free to release the third installment of his Bricks & Minifigs investigation after a U.S. federal court replaced a previous state court restraining order with a narrower preliminary injunction. The updated order removes restrictions that had prevented Schneider from publishing new videos or publicly commenting on the dispute.
The legal battle began after Schneider published a series of videos investigating allegations involving a Bricks & Minifigs franchise in Oregon and a valuable LEGO collection. Following the release of the first two videos, Bricks & Minifigs filed a lawsuit alleging defamation and other claims, prompting a temporary restraining order that prevented Schneider from releasing Part 3 while the case was pending.
The injunction still includes several restrictions
Although the revised order restores Schneider’s ability to discuss the lawsuit and continue his reporting, it does not remove every restriction.
Under the preliminary injunction, Schneider and the other defendants remain prohibited from making or encouraging threats, doxxing individuals, trespassing, impersonating the plaintiffs or franchise owners, interfering with business operations, or soliciting confidential information through unlawful means. The order specifically allows lawful commentary, investigative journalism and publication of court documents.
Shortly after the ruling, Schneider confirmed that Part 3 would be published, ending weeks of uncertainty during which he said releasing the video could expose him to legal consequences.
Dispute remains ongoing
While the new order is a major step, the underlying lawsuit remains unresolved.
Bricks & Minifigs and Schneider have agreed to pursue mediation as the civil case continues. The dispute centers on Schneider’s investigation into the handling of a large LEGO collection, allegations that have attracted widespread attention within the YouTube community and prompted coverage from several prominent creators.
The release of Part 3 is expected to provide additional details about the investigation, including courtroom recordings and Schneider’s account of the legal proceedings. Schneider has also said that work on a fourth installment is already underway.
Featured image courtesy: Reckless Ben