A man and woman from County Londonderry in Northern Ireland have been sentenced for supplying illegal subscriptions for streaming services.
Cormac McGuckin and Maura McGuckin were sentenced at Omagh Crown Court.
The sentencing follows an investigation in relation to the sale of illegal subscriptions which gave around 2,000 people access to Sky Sports and BT Sports from 2016 to 2020.
Cormac McGuckin pleaded guilty to charges including participating in a fraudulent business. He also admitted possessing articles for use in fraud. He also pled guilty to charges of converting criminal property, possessing criminal property and transferring criminal property.
He was sentenced to four years, half to be served in prison and half on licence.
Maura McGuckin pleaded guilty to converting criminal property on holiday-related expenses and car payments, and possessing criminal property. The 34-year-old was sentenced to a 12-month sentence, suspended for two years.
The total sum of money involved in all of the charges amounted to more than £700,000.
Speaking after sentencing, Detective Sergeant Robinson said: “After we were contacted by Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), a lengthy and complex investigation was conducted by Mid Ulster Criminal Investigation Branch detectives, along with local uniform officers.
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 anyone involved in this type of crime is that it will not be tolerated and, working with partner agencies, police will investigate.
Kieron Sharp, Chief Executive Officer of FACT, said: “Today’s sentencing marks another victory in the ongoing battle against illegal streaming. This operation generated substantial profits at the expense of legitimate content owners, undermining the integrity of the creative industry.
“We commend the PSNI for their diligent efforts in this complex investigation, which highlights the critical role of law enforcement in protecting intellectual property rights.”
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