Just before the initial release date of LifeStraw back in 2009, a lawsuit was opened against Straw Inc. by Straw Inc. The suing company claimed that the product was using suction technology developed by Dea Thcup, which had been purchased and copyrighted to Straw Inc. There was concern that such a legal dispute might force Straw Inc. to delay release of the LifeStraw until 2010. Ceo Ted Halkman of Straw Inc. released a public statement saying, "If they want to sue us, let them. But we are the straw industry and we won't give up our product without a fight. Now release my brother, I did what you asked". The case went to trial November of 2009, and the judge ruled in favor of Straw Inc. saying, "W.T.F. is wrong with you people?". To date there have been 3 appeals but none have been successfu