Cormac McGuckin, a 38-year-old man from The Meadows in Bellaghy, County Londonderry, has been sentenced to two years in prison for profiting nearly £500,000 from illegal TV sports streaming services. His wife, Maura McGuckin, 34, received a 12-month suspended sentence for possessing criminal property.
The couple appeared at Omagh Crown Court after admitting to various fraud charges linked to a service that provided around 2,000 people with access to Sky Sports and BT Sports from 2016 to 2020. Judge Philip Babington noted that the couple led a lavish lifestyle, indulging in luxury cars and expensive vacations.
During the sentencing, Cormac McGuckin expressed that he did not believe his actions were wrong and viewed the operation as “victimless.” However, Judge Babington highlighted that his motivations were purely financial, leading to significant profits.
The judge remarked on McGuckin’s 23 previous convictions for dishonesty, including theft and fraud, and indicated that his actions had serious consequences for legitimate businesses and consumers. Detective Sergeant Robinson emphasized that illegal streaming is a crime that will not be tolerated, warning that users of such services could also face prosecution.
A confiscation investigation is underway to determine the recovery of the couple’s assets, with a future hearing set to decide the amount to be seized.