Federal Trade Commission retains Bates White to support its bid to unwind Axon–VieVu merger

In 2018, Axon announced its acquisition of VieVu; the two companies competed to provide body-worn camera systems to large metropolitan police departments across the United States. In 2020, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) retained Bates White to support its bid to unwind the merger. According to the FTC complaint, Axon’s acquisition reduced competition in an already concentrated market.

Eric Emch evaluated the competitive effects of the merger; his analysis showed that the merger reduced competition in the market and will likely lead to higher prices paid by large, metropolitan police departments. Axon countersued, challenging the constitutionality of the FTC itself. In October 2023, the FTC withdrew its administrative complaint, citing “protracted and ongoing delays” caused by Axon’s countersuit. The case was closely followed for its potential legal implications.

Dr. Emch was supported by a team including Randy Chugh, Mico Mao, Sheridan Rogers, and Matt Wohlleben.