An illegal streamer who established his own channel broadcasting Premier League matches has been handed a jail sentence of three years and two months.
Michael Barrow, who founded the illicit MB Streams service, pleaded guilty to three Fraud Act offences after screening top-flight fixtures and was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court. Barrow built up the channel to more than 2,000 subscribers using pre-loaded Firesticks and raked in over £200,000 from the operation.
It is the latest substantial custodial sentence handed down to an illegal streaming operation, with Barrow receiving his punishment despite having been previously warned. He went to considerable lengths to evade detection, even instructing regular customers to disguise their bank transfers as purchases of retro football kits.
The case was brought by the Premier League and received backing from several organisations, including FACT and the TARIAN Regional Organised Crime Unit’s Economic Crime Team in south Wales.
Premier League Director of Legal – Enforcement, Stefan Sergot, said: “This sentence once again highlights the severe consequences for individuals involved in supplying illegal streaming services. The decision to ignore clear warnings only compounded the seriousness of the offending, 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, including fraud, malware and identity theft.
“Tackling these services is therefore not only about protecting intellectual property, but also about helping to safeguard fans from harm.”
“The sale of broadcast rights underpins the Premier League’s financial support across the football pyramid, and we are pleased that the courts have again recognised 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 identify and prosecute illegal operators at all levels.”
Kieron Sharp, Chairman of FACT, said: “Barrow was given a clear warning to stop his illegal activity but instead chose to continue supplying devices and services that enabled people to access paid-for content unlawfully. This was a deliberate and sustained criminal operation.
“Illegal streaming is not a victimless crime. It damages the creative industries, undermines legitimate broadcasters, sports rights holders and service providers, and exposes users to serious risks, including fraud, malware and criminal exploitation.
“FACT works closely with police forces, regional organised crime units, the Premier League and other rights holders to identify and disrupt those involved in illegal streaming.
“This case sends a clear message that people who supply modified devices or illegal IPTV services can and will face serious criminal consequences.”