A man who provided illegal subscriptions to premium TV channels is sent to prison

A Co. Derry man and woman have been jailed for offenses relating to providing illegal subscriptions to streaming services worth hundreds of thousands of euros

Cormac McGuckin and Maura McGuckin, both from Bellaghy, were sentenced at Omagh Crown Court on Friday.

The verdict follows an investigation into the sale of illegal license fees to television channels and broadcasters, which involved more than £700,000.

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On June 4 this year, Cormac McGuckin, 38, pleaded guilty to charges including engaging in fraudulent business activity between January 1, 2016 and June 18, 2020.

He also admitted that on June 18, 2020, he was in possession of items used for fraud. He also pleaded guilty to charges of conversion of criminal property, possession of criminal property and transfer of criminal property.

During Friday’s hearing, he was sentenced to four years in prison, half of which he was to spend in prison and half on licence.

Additionally, on June 4, Maura McGuckin pleaded guilty to converting criminal property into vacation expenses and car payments and possessing criminal property. The crimes occurred between April 21, 2017 and June 18, 2020. The 34-year-old was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years.

The total amount of money involved was over £700,000

Speaking after the verdict, Detective Sergeant Robinson said: “After we were contacted by the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), detectives from the Mid Ulster Criminal Investigation Department, working with local officers, carried out a lengthy and complex investigation.

“It was a brazen operation that lasted several years and gave the impression of a legitimate, legitimate activity. The proceeds were used to finance a number of car loans for luxury car brands, as well as various large holiday-related payments. expenses.”

Detective Sergeant Robinson said: “This is not a victimless crime as this type of operation has a direct impact on businesses and consumers and our message to all those involved in this type of crime is that it will not be tolerated and – in cooperation with agencies partners – the police will conduct an investigation.

“Users and subscribers of illegal services should also be aware that they too are committing a crime for which they can be identified and prosecuted.

“It’s no surprise that those who provide illegal streaming have no concerns about your private information, including banking details. Software and devices used to stream material may be used to collect personal information. This “cheap subscription” could end up costing you a lot more.”

Detective Sergeant Robinson added: “We thank FACT, our colleagues in the district who assisted with our investigation and colleagues from other police departments who helped.”

The Economic Crimes Unit conducted a confiscation investigation to seize the available assets of the accused persons. The amount subject to confiscation will be determined at a future hearing.

Kieron Sharp, chief executive of FACT, said: “Today’s verdict marks another victory in the ongoing fight against illegal streaming. This operation has generated significant profits at the expense of legitimate content owners, undermining the integrity of the creative industry.

“We commend the PSNI for its diligent efforts in this complex investigation, which highlights the key role of law enforcement in protecting intellectual property rights.”