“ The Onion “auction” was not authorized by the judge…”
In bankruptcy that goes to auction, the judge literally presides over the auction or I think the judge can appoint someone in his stead.
It is scheduled well in advance and it must be “advertised” in such a way that interested parties, not already associated with the case, are informed.
All of this is to protect the rights of the creditors so that the maximum amount is returned in the auction.
Any amount over what is owed goes to the bankrupt company.
The judge had no idea the "auction" had taken place, and he was pissed and said it was not valid. The Onion went so far as to shut Infowars down and kick everyone out. Then they returned it and told Alex they were sorry and "no hard feelings" after spending years trying to destroy Alex and his family.
At this point the hunters have become the hunted. This is going to be fun.