A man has been jailed for four-and-a-half years for selling IPTV boxes, it has been claimed.
As per copyright protection group FACT, Michael Hornung, 40, was set to receive his sentencing for selling IPTV boxes back in 2022. However, he is said to have fled the UK for northern Cyprus to evade extradition.
Hornung, of Greater Manchester, has ultimately been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison for running a scheme that allowed access to Sky and TNT channels.
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He is said to have pocketed around £350,000 from the scheme, selling an estimated 2,700 boxes, which led to broadcasters and rights holders losing £2million in revenue.
Honrung’s scheme was allegedly named 'NoHatsNoTrainers' and ran between 2014 and 2017.
Deputy Director International from the National Crime Agency (NCA) Tom Dowdall said: ”Hornung thought fleeing overseas would mean he would never have to face his crimes.
“However, the NCA's international network regularly shares intelligence and works closely with overseas partners to apprehend those on the run.
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“After liaison with law enforcement officers in Cyprus, Hornung has been returned to the UK to serve his sentence.”
While IPTV boxes are legal, they become illegal when modified to include the broadcast of premium subscription content.
“Hornung's criminal business provided customers the means to access premium TV without compensating broadcasters or those with intellectual property rights,” FACT CEO Kieron Sharp said.
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“This conviction underscores our commitment to tackling fraud and piracy at all levels and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
“The extradition of Michael Hornung serves as a reminder that no one is beyond the reach of the law.
“FACT will be relentless in our pursuit of individuals who profit from illegal activities, regardless of where they seek refuge.”
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Chris Byfield