HDNet sues DirecTV for ripping off its customers

Dallas (TX) - HDNet has filed a lawsuit against satellite provider DirecTV for violating its contract, after it announced plans to charge users more money for access to the channel.

On December 15, HDNet and HDNet Movies will be moved to a premium programming package that costs subscribers around an additional $5 per month.

The package, called "HD Extra Pack", will also include Universal HD, MGM HD, Smithsonian HD, and MHD. Customers will have to pay the fee on top of a $10/month charge they already pay for most other HD channels.

HDNet says this move is in "gross violation of their contractual obligations," according to the lawsuit. Trade publication Multichannel News reports the suit goes on to accuse DirecTV of taking their channel away from two million HD subscribers and moving it "to a newly created obscure and overpriced package that puts the HDNet channels well beyond the reach of the average television viewer."

However, DirecTV spokesperson Rob Mercer said, "They have not provided any concrete evidence to support their claims. We are acting in accord with our agreement with HDNet and we will defend the lawsuit vigorously."

DirecTV is seeking an immediate injunctive ruling as well as unspecified monetary damages.