Gang sentenced for burglary and illegal streaming
In a recent turn of events, a gang that targeted elderly victims through a series of burglaries in north-east Wales has been sentenced to over 30 years in prison. Meanwhile, another gang has been ordered to repay £3.75 million for illegally streaming Premier League matches.
The first gang, which included three men and a woman, preyed on vulnerable individuals, often using a ruse about searching for a missing cat. They deliberately identified older victims, surveilling them in public before following them home to commit their crimes.
Key sentencing details:
- Adam Purcell received a sentence of three and a half years.
- Michael McGuire was jailed for two years and 11 months.
- Michael Berry faced three years in prison.
- Anne Delaney received a 23-month sentence, suspended for two years.
The gang’s actions caused significant trauma to their victims. Superintendent Mark Williams remarked, “This organised crime gang targeted a number of innocent families – some who were extremely vulnerable – stealing cash and sentimental family jewellery for their own financial gain.” He added, “I hope today’s result sends a clear message that burglary will not be tolerated.”
On the other hand, the illegal streaming operation known as Flawless TV generated more than £7 million between 2016 and 2021. Five members of this gang were sentenced to over 30 years collectively. The total sum of £3.75 million they were ordered to repay is the second largest figure in the UK against illegal streaming operators.
Highlights from the illegal streaming case:
- The operation was active from 2016 to 2021.
- It generated over £7 million during its run.
- The ordered repayment of £3.75 million sets a significant precedent.
The money recovered from this operation will be split between the Treasury and bodies involved in prosecution. This dual approach—tackling both burglary and illegal streaming—illustrates the ongoing fight against organised crime in the UK.
As NewsUK's Senior Football Correspondent, Thomas Beckwith reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on three World Cups for a national news agency. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Thomas lives in Sheffield, where he watches lower-league football most weekends. “Football writing is about the decisions, not just the result.”
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