via Computer and Video Games


ELPSA's own CTU, the Anti-Piracy Unit has struck again, by capturing and sentencing a Welshman for producing and selling copied games. When will they learn that you just don't mess with the APU?

Codename "Operation Buzzard" (we told you they were badass) saw the capture of a 46-year-old man, nicknamed the Welsh Games Barron (by us), who has now been sentenced for four years imprisonment for his dirty game copying deeds.

Upon hearing of the Cullen's shady dealings, ELPSA's black helicopters descended on West Hollywood... erm, we mean Coed Mawr market in Flintshire, where the Cullen's ran a stall with a massive banner that said 'The DVD man - for all your top quality DVDs at rock bottom prices'.

Cullen and his 25-year-old daughter were charging £5 each for the illegal games as well as offering three for £10 or seven for £20 (you just don't get deals like that at GameStation).

A series of coordinated raids seized equipment used in the manufacture of illegally copied games and large quantities of counterfeit goods.

When it was discovered that the Barron, the cheeky git, had claimed nearly £69,000 in Income Support despite often flying first class to Thailand, the feds got really pissed and imposed a further £190,000 confiscation order.

And if he doesn't pay it within six months? Another three years in the nick. Have that.

His daughter was sentenced to eight months imprisonment, 150 hours unpaid work and 50 lashes (we made one of those up).

Michael Rawlinson, managing director of ELSPA, commented: "ELSPA would like to thank everyone involved with Operation Buzzard for their work and helping to protect local traders and the general community from the effects of pirated goods.

"The simple fact about piracy of video games, music and films is that it is illegal and punishable by fines, Community Service and jail sentences. No matter which way you look at counterfeiting it is nothing more than theft. Counterfeiters are only out for one thing: money. And because of this consumers who buy counterfeit games have no recourse under law for faulty goods." ...