But more battles are likely to be waged in the coming years on this issue, according to Mr. Coffee.

"I have a perfectly nice Mr. Coffee in my kitchen."

Mr. Coffee spoke after being told of the trades, but before learning that they had been made by a congressman.

"I think he's got significant evidence of fraud in these papers," Mr. Coffee said.

"You have to show it was manipulation," Mr. Coffee said of investigators.

He goes downstairs, kicks the Mr. Coffee back into gear, and calls work.

And Mr. Coffee, the law professor, said he would not be surprised if public entities like cities soon took similar actions.

But there are more limited actions the firm could take, Mr. Coffee said.

Ryan watched, then crossed to Mr. Coffee and poured himself a second cup.

Why don't you break down and buy yourself a Mr. Coffee?