Jail for man who ran illegal TV streaming company

A MAN and woman were sentenced at Omagh Crown Court on Friday for offences relating to supplying illegal subscriptions for streaming services that involved more than £700,000.

Cormac McGuckin and Maura McGuckin, both from Bellaghy, were prosecuted after a major investigation in relation to the sale of illegal subscriptions for television channels and broadcasters.

In June this year Cormac McGuckin (38), pleaded guilty to charges including participating in a fraudulent business on dates between January 1, 2016 and June 18, 2020.

He also admitted possessing articles for use in fraud on June 18, 2020. He also pleaded guilty to charges of converting criminal property, possessing criminal property and transferring criminal property.

In Omagh court on Friday, he was sentenced to four years, half to be served in prison and half on licence.

Holiday-related expenses

Meanwhile, also in June, Maura McGuckin pleaded guilty to converting criminal property on holiday-related expenses and car payments, and possessing criminal property.

The offences occurred between April 21, 2017 and June 18, 2020.

On Friday, the 34-year-old received a 12-month jail term, which was suspended for two years.

The total sum of money involved in all of the charges amounted to more than £700,000.

Brazen operation

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.

“This was a brazen operation that ran for several years and as though it was a legitimate, legal business. The proceeds of which were used for multiple vehicle loans for high-end car brands, while there was also various large payments on holiday-related expenses.”

The detective also warned, “Users and subscribers of illegal services should also be aware that they too are committing an offence for which they can be identified and prosecuted.”

A confiscation investigation has been conducted by Economic Crime Unit with a view to seizing the defendants’ available assets.

The amount to be confiscated will be determined at a future hearing.

Kieron Sharp, FACT chief executive, said, “The 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.”

To report fraud, call 101 or make a report online via our bespoke Fraud reporting option at https://www.psni.police.uk/report.