Man jailed for over 3-years after illegally streaming Premier League | UK | News
An illegal broadcaster who established his own channel broadcasting Premier League matches was sentenced to three years and two months in prison.
Michael Barrow, who founded the illegal MB Streams service, pleaded guilty to three Fraud Act charges and was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court after watching top-level matches. Using pre-installed Firesticks, Barrow grew the channel to over 2,000 subscribers and generated over £200,000 in revenue from the operation.
This is the latest significant prison sentence for an illegal broadcasting operation; Barrow received his punishment even though he had been warned beforehand. He went to great lengths to avoid detection, even instructing regular customers to disguise their bank transfers as if they were buying retro football jerseys.
The case was brought by the Premier League and received support from a number of organisations, including FACT and the Economic Crime Team of the TARIAN Regional Organized Crime Unit in South Wales.
Premier League Legal – Enforcement Director Stefan Sergot said: “This sentence once again highlights the serious consequences for individuals providing illegal streaming services. “The decision to ignore clear warnings has only increased the seriousness of the offense and this is reflected in the sentence handed down today.
“Illegal streaming is often linked to wider criminal activity and can expose fans to serious risks such as fraud, malware and identity theft.
“So fighting these services isn’t just about protecting intellectual property, it’s also about helping prevent fans from harm.”
“The sale of broadcasting rights forms the basis of the Premier League’s financial support within the football pyramid and we are pleased that the courts have once again recognized the importance of protecting these rights with the outcome of this case.
“The Premier League will continue to work closely with FACT and law enforcement authorities to detect and prosecute illegal operators at all levels.”
FACT Chairman Kieron Sharp said: “Barrow was given a clear warning to cease his illegal activity, but instead chose to continue providing devices and services that enable people to illegally access paid content. “This was a deliberate and sustained criminal operation.
“Illegal streaming is not a victimless crime. It harms creative industries, undermines legitimate broadcasters, sports rights holders and service providers and exposes users to serious risks such as fraud, malware and criminal misuse.
“FACT works closely with police forces, regional organized crime units, the Premier League and other rights holders to identify and disrupt those involved in illegal broadcasting.
“This case sends a clear message that people who provide modified devices or illegal IPTV services can and will face serious criminal consequences.”
