Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is resolute in its decision to push forward with a £3 billion claim against the estate of Mike Lynch, the founder of British software company Autonomy, who tragically passed away on the superyacht Bayesian in a recent maritime disaster off the coast of Sicily. This decision comes as part of an ongoing fraud lawsuit against Lynch and his former chief financial officer, Sushovan Hussain, regarding the 2011 sale of Autonomy to Hewlett Packard for £7 billion.
Despite the unfortunate demise of Lynch and his daughter in the yacht accident, HPE has confirmed its determination to see the legal proceedings through to their conclusion. The lawsuit, which alleges fraud in the Autonomy deal, had initially led to Lynch and Hussain being found liable for fraudulent activities surrounding the sale, a judgment that resulted in significant legal repercussions for the individuals involved. Hussain faced criminal charges in the United States back in 2018 and received a five-year prison sentence, while Lynch, although acquitted in a separate trial in June, continued to be embroiled in the civil case brought forth by HPE that sought significant financial redress.
The litigation has been ongoing for several years, with HPE pursuing substantial damages following the fallout from the Autonomy sale that had once furbished Lynch with the reputation of "Britain's Bill Gates." Despite Lynch's legal vindication in a recent trial, HPE's commitment to holding him accountable for the alleged fraud and seeking financial compensation remains steadfast, with further legal rulings expected in the near future. Lynch's family has chosen not to comment on the ongoing legal battle and the company's pursuit of damages against the estate.