In a significant blow to the world of illegal streaming, a notorious gang has been handed prison sentences for providing cut-price subscriptions to Premier League matches, defrauding over 50,000 individuals. The Premier League confirmed that five men were found guilty of multiple charges including conspiracy to defraud, money laundering, and contempt of court, having amassed more than £7 million in illicit profits over a span of five years.
The operation, allegedly masterminded by Mark Gould of London, came to a halt when the defendants—Steven Gordon, Peter Jolley, William Brown, and Christopher Felvus—were apprehended. The gang exploited their network to grant unauthorized access to hundreds of channels broadcasting matches from around the globe, in addition to tens of thousands of on-demand films and TV shows.
However, one member of the gang, Zak Smith, failed to appear in court for the sentencing, resulting in a warrant being issued for his arrest. The Premier League revealed that the illicit streaming business employed 30 individuals, with one operative covertly embedded within a specialized anti-piracy organization.
During the trial, William Brown from Stoke-on-Trent pleaded not guilty, claiming to have acted as an undercover informant on behalf of law enforcement authorities and broadcasters. He argued that his technical prowess was utilized to infiltrate the accounts of legitimate customers, copying streams with the intention of framing them should their activities be detected by the authorities. Despite his defense, a jury unanimously convicted the 33-year-old after a seven-week trial.
The prosecution received support from the trading standards team of Hammersmith & Fulham Council and the intellectual property protection organization Fact. The Premier League’s general counsel, Kevin Plumb, expressed satisfaction with the sentencing, deeming it the culmination of an extensive and intricate legal process.
These convictions set a new precedent, with the longest sentences ever issued for piracy-related crimes, highlighting the gravity and scope of the offenses committed. Plumb emphasized the connections between piracy and broader criminal activities, cautioning the public against engaging with such illicit services. While the majority of Premier League fans enjoy matches through legitimate means, those who supported these illegal services unknowingly aided individuals involved in more sinister and perilous organized crime ventures.
The Premier League’s ability to contribute significantly to the entire football ecosystem hinges on the revenue generated from the sale of broadcast rights. Plumb underscored the importance of safeguarding these rights and expressed gratitude for the courts’ consistent recognition of their significance.
The Premier League remains steadfast in its commitment to protect its rights and its fans. Efforts to investigate and prosecute illegal operators at all levels will persist, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for both football enthusiasts and the industry as a whole.
