New Strike 3 Holdings Lawsuits in the Eastern District of New York: Magistrate Judge Steven I. Locke Handling Many Cases – What Defendants Need to Know

By Attorney Jeffrey Antonelli, Antonelli Law | August 2026

Strike 3 Holdings, LLC has filed another significant wave of “John Doe” copyright infringement lawsuits in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. These cases, filed primarily on or around July 21, 2026, target individuals identified only by IP address and allege unauthorized downloading and distribution of adult films via BitTorrent.

The cases are proceeding in both the Brooklyn courthouse (225 Cadman Plaza East) and the Central Islip courthouse on Long Island (100 Federal Plaza). A notable feature of this group of filings is that Magistrate Judge Steven I. Locke has been referred a substantial number of these matters under several different district judges.

Magistrate Judge Steven I. Locke’s Role

Magistrate Judge Locke is currently handling discovery and related issues in numerous Strike 3 cases assigned to district judges including Gary R. Brown, Joan M. Azrack, Joanna Seybert, Nusrat J. Choudhury, Sanket J. Bulsara, and others. This concentration is similar to patterns we have previously observed in other districts where a single magistrate judge becomes the primary point of contact for early-stage issues, particularly motions for expedited discovery and protective orders.

Recent Cases and Discovery Orders

Many of the July 2026 filings have already received orders granting limited early discovery. These orders generally permit Strike 3 to serve a Rule 45 subpoena on the relevant internet service provider (Spectrum, Verizon Fios, or Optimum Online) for the limited purpose of obtaining the name and address of the subscriber associated with the listed IP address.

Importantly, the protective language in these orders is consistent with prior practice in the Eastern District of New York and includes meaningful privacy safeguards. Typical provisions include:

•  The subpoena is limited to the subscriber’s name and address only.

•  Strike 3 is not permitted to seek phone numbers or email addresses without further court order.

•  The ISP must first notify the subscriber and provide a 60-day window to contest the subpoena or seek to proceed anonymously before any identifying information is released.

•  If a motion to quash or a request to remain anonymous is filed, the ISP may not release the information until the court rules.

•  Any information obtained may be used solely for purposes of the lawsuit.

These protections are valuable, but they are not automatic shields. The 60-day period after the ISP notifies the subscriber is a critical window during which timely action can still make a meaningful difference.

Representative Recent Filings (July 21, 2026 wave)

Cases are pending before a range of district judges with referrals to Magistrate Judge Locke and other magistrates (including Taryn A. Merkl, Peggy Kuo, Lara K. Eshkenazi, and others). ISPs involved include Spectrum, Verizon Fios, and Optimum Online. The number of works alleged varies significantly from case to case (ranging from the mid-20s to well over 100 in some instances).

Counsel appearing for Strike 3 in many of these matters includes John C. Atkin (and in some filings, other attorneys associated with the plaintiff).

What Should You Do If You Received an ISP Notice?

Receiving a letter from your internet service provider about a subpoena in a Strike 3 Holdings case can be stressful. Here is calm, practical guidance:

1.  Do not ignore the notice. The timelines in these cases move forward whether or not you respond.

2.  Do not contact Strike 3 or its attorneys directly. Anything you say can be used in the case.

3.  Preserve the letter and any related documents. Keep clear records of dates and communications.

4.  Contact experienced counsel promptly. The earlier a knowledgeable attorney reviews your specific situation, the more options are typically available.

5.  Understand that an IP address identifies a connection, not necessarily a person. Shared networks, household members, guests, and other factual circumstances are often relevant.

Our Approach

Antonelli Law has been defending individuals in BitTorrent copyright cases since 2010. We have handled Strike 3 Holdings matters across the country, including in the Eastern District of New York. Our focus is on providing clear information, protecting privacy to the extent possible, and resolving cases efficiently and ethically.

We do not use pressure tactics or inflated promises. Our clients consistently report that they appreciate receiving straightforward advice and respectful communication during a difficult time. Read real client reviews including in New York here.

If you have received a subpoena notice from Spectrum, Verizon, Optimum, or another ISP in connection with a Strike 3 Holdings case in the Eastern District of New York, we are available to discuss your options.

Call us confidentially at (312) 201-8310

or book a free consultation online.

This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. Please consult qualified counsel about your specific situation.

See Our Other “What to do if you received a Strike 3 subpoena” articles:

– Central District of California (Judge Delaney)