ELSPA NETS TWO-TIME SCOTTISH GAMES PIRATE
Monday 12 September 2005/... A Scottish man has been reported to the procurator FISCAL for Trade Mark offences after being caught for the second time in the past three years illegally copying and selling computer games, following an ELSPA-led operation on 26th August.
The most recent raid, headed by ELSPA with the support of South Ayrshire Council Trading Standards and Strathclyde police, revealed the offender had recommenced his piracy trade selling copied games including Xbox and PS2 compilation discs. The authorities recovered a substantial amount of merchandise comprising 344 Xbox discs, 85 Xbox compilations, 154 PS2 games and several PS2 compilations and copied PC games. Two PCs were also seized. It was found that the individual had been using the sheltered housing address of his mentally ill mother-in-law as a drop off point for the goods.
The counterfeiter was first raided at his home address in September 2002 by ELSPA with local police and Trading Standards officers. Investigators found a large number of copied games and copying equipment set up in an area originally adapted with aid of a government grant to improve access for his disabled daughter. The case went to court where the Sheriff, though stating a fine of several thousands of pounds would be more appropriate to the nature of the crime, took into consideration the offender's financial situation and issued a 200 hour community service order for offences under the Trade Marks Act.
The individual, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been reported for prosecution and proceedings in the Sheriff's court may follow. He potentially faces financial investigation under POCA (Proceeds Of Crime Act).
EDITORS NOTES
About ELSPA - http://www.elspa.com
ELSPA (The Entertainment & Leisure Software Publishers Association) was founded in 1989 to establish a specific and collective identity for the computer and video games industry. Membership includes almost all companies concerned with the publishing and distribution of interactive leisure software in the UK.
ELSPA's activities include: Official Chart and Industry Reports, Anti-Piracy UK and EU, PR and Communication, Events. More information on all these activities can be found at http://www.elspa.com.
About Software Piracy and its negative impact on both consumers and industry
Piracy/counterfeiting is illegal and punishable by fines and jail sentences.
The illegal copying of software poses the very real threat of criminal prosecution and a criminal record, as well as the risk of massive personal financial loss under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Consumers have no recourse under law for faulty pirated games, which can damage hardware.
Counterfeited/pirated games are often mixed with obscene or pornographic material.
Local and national jobs are lost as result of pirate operations.
Proven links exist between many organised counterfeiting organisations and dealers in drugs and pornography.