A US judge has denied short-seller Andrew Left's second attempt to dismiss the criminal case against him, which alleges he used false social media posts to manipulate stock prices for profit. Left argued the prosecution was selective, targeting his negative online speech while ignoring others who posted positive market opinions. The judge's order did not specify reasons for the denial. Left has pleaded not guilty to charges that could result in up to 25 years in prison, with his trial scheduled for March 17.