Illegal Premier League streamers have been handed down a total of 17 years in prison for "conspiracy to defraud."
Steven King was leading the charge in the fraud and received a sentence of seven years and four months, while Paul Rolston received six years and four months for his part in the crime.
The final member of the trio, Daniel Malone, was handed down a sentence of three years and three months.
The Warwick Crown Court jury delivered the guilty verdict in a trial that lasted four weeks.
The trio were conducting their illegal operation under three names -- Dreambox (unincorporated), Dreambox TV Limited and Digital Switchover Limited -- and were responsible for providing access to Premier League footage to "more than 1,000 pubs, clubs and homes throughout England and Wales."
According to the Premier League's website, they earned in excess of £5m through their illegal practice.
Kevin Plumb, the director of legal services for the Premier League, said: "Today's decision has provided further evidence that the law will catch up with companies and individuals that defraud rights owners and breach copyright.
Advert
"The custodial sentences issued here reflect the seriousness and the scale of the crimes.
"Using these services is unlawful and fans should be aware that when they do so they enter into agreements with illegal businesses.
"They also risk being victims of fraud or identity theft by handing over personal data and financial details.
"The Premier League's investment into cutting edge technology, combined with wide-ranging anti-piracy actions such as the one here today and the continuing landmark blocking injunction, means that it has never been more difficult for football piracy to operate in the UK."
Kieron Sharp, the director general at the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), added: "The result of this case demonstrates that the illegal streaming of, and illegal access to, Premier League football is a serious crime.
Advert
"This was a criminal enterprise whose only function was to make money from defrauding the Premier League and the legitimate broadcasters.
"For those people using services such as this, do not think that this is a grey area -- it is not, it is breaking the law.
"Do not think it is a victimless crime -- it is not, it puts thousands of ordinary people's jobs at risk. Do not think that the internet provides anonymity -- it does not."
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football News, Football, Premier League