Jimmy Buffet settles with Texas merchant

GALVESTON, Texas, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Singer Jimmy Buffett lost a fan but protected his Parrothead merchandise when Texas-based merchant Robert Akard agreed to an out-of-court settlement.

From his headquarters in Texas, Akard sold Parrothead-themed items on his Web site UnderOneHut.com. Buffett sells a mix of the same items at his own Margaritaville site on the Web and in his restaurants.

U.S. District Judge Sam Kent issued a court order barring Akard from infringing on Buffett's trademark suit earlier this month. Because he did not comply, Akard was jailed after a hearing Monday. Akard's attorney Darrell Apffel called the dispute an example of "David vs. Goliath," E! Online reports.

After a few hours in a cell, Akard signed settlement papers, agreeing to stop selling or advertising Jimmy Buffett merchandise. He says he's now a "former fan."