Elite models are no Playboy centerfolds

New York, Nov 7 : Modelling agency Elite Model Management, known for its world-class beauties, has won a case against escort service website Elitemodel.cc for using the name "Elite".

When Elite Model Management filed the lawsuit last summer, the unnamed owners of the website, who had used a Park Ave. address, took the site down, revealed attorney Abraham Skoff, The News reported.

But they failed to respond to trademark-infringement claims made by Elite lawyers, which prompted Federal District Court Judge P. Kevin Castel to issue a default judgment in Elite's favour.

Elite runs its own Web site, elitemodel.com, featuring some of the 800 waif-thin models across five continents who make it one of the world's largest modelling agencies.

Elitemodel.cc, on the other hand, had a 7,500 dollars membership fee, and offered a buffet of nude and partially nude girls for would-be customers to choose from.

"Elite management is a highly respected and established introduction company that delivers an exemplary personal service to people of style and sophistication," the New York Daily News quoted the escort service's Web site as claiming.

"To keep up the high standard we are particularly interested in world-class runway models, Playboy centrefolds, glamour models and TV movie actresses," the Web site said.

Skoff yesterday told Castel that the company would not be seeking a damages award.

"This type of cybersquatting is a big issue," Skoff said.

ANI