Premier League confirms three-year jail sentence for ‘Firesticks’ offender as authorities clamp down on ‘illicit streaming services’

Liverpool Crown Court handed the sentence, which includes a concurrent sentence of two years and three months for accessing and viewing the content, down to Jonathan Edge, 29, from Liverpool, after he pleaded guilty to three offences under the Fraud Act.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Edge was prosecuted for uploading illegal services on to the devices in return for cash at his home. The court was told he received and ignored several warnings to stop, which was referenced by the judge and a factor in his sentencing.

  WHAT THE PREMIER LEAGUE SAID

  Edge’s prosecution comes amid a crackdown on illicit streaming services being used to access live Premier League matches illegally.

  “The significant sentence handed down to the individual involved once again serves to highlight the severity of his actions and we thank Merseyside Police for their support throughout the case,” Kevin Plumb, Premier League General Counsel, said.

  “We will continue to pursue legal action against those supplying unauthorised access to Premier League football, regardless of the scale or mode of operation. Ignoring warnings to stop only served to make the consequences worse for the individual.

  “The selling of broadcast rights supports the Premier League’s industry-leading financial contribution to the whole football pyramid and we’re pleased that the courts have once again recognised the importance of safeguarding these rights with the outcome of this case. No matter the scale, we will continue to protect these rights by carrying out investigations and prosecuting illegal operators at every level.”

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  WHAT NEXT?

  The Premier League will continue to work with broadcast partners and authorities to crack down on illegal streams and prosecute those supplying the services and products.