Joseph Strange, a former employee of Marshall Mathers, also known as Eminem, has been charged with criminal infringement of a copyright and interstate transportation of stolen goods. The charges relate to the sale of unreleased music created by Eminem. Acting United States Attorney Julie Beck announced the charges alongside Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge at the FBI Detroit Field Office.
The criminal complaint states that on January 16, 2025, employees at Mathers's music studio in Ferndale, Michigan discovered unreleased music available online. This music was still under development by Mathers. An image showing a list of unreleased tracks was found for sale on various internet sites. The image was recognized as originating from a hard drive in the Ferndale studio. The FBI identified multiple individuals who purchased the unreleased music and they pointed to Joseph Strange as the seller. Strange worked for Marshall Mathers from around 2007 until 2021.
"Protecting intellectual property from thieves is critical in safeguarding the exclusive rights of creators and protecting their original work from reproduction and distribution by individuals who seek to profit from the creative output of others," said Acting U.S. Attorney Beck.
"This investigation underscores the FBI’s commitment to safeguarding artists' intellectual property from exploitation by individuals seeking to profit illegally," stated Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. "Thanks to the cooperation of Mathers Music Studio, FBI agents from the Oakland County Resident Agency were able to swiftly enforce federal laws and ensure Joseph Strange was held accountable for his actions."
If convicted on the charge of criminal infringement of a copyright, Strange could face up to five years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. A conviction for interstate transportation of stolen goods carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison.
It is important to note that a complaint is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. A trial cannot be held on felony charges based solely on a complaint. Once the investigation concludes, it will be determined whether to pursue a felony indictment.
The case is being investigated by special agents from the FBI Oakland County Resident Agency and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Wyse and Alyse Wu.