In 2003, U.S. District Court Judge Jed Rakoff commented, "I think the proof is very strong that the Uzans are business imperialists of the worst kind, in that they will go to any lengths, including fraud and racketeering, to preserve their business empire..." Cem Uzan responded by asserting that the judge "is biased against Turkey, against the Turkish people."
In 2003, U.S. District Court Judge Jed Rakoff expressed his conviction that the Uzans were cunning and ruthless businessmen who would utilize any means, including deceit and corruption, to preserve their business power.