Andre Yoskowitz
29 Feb 2016 22:13
William Moriarty has pled guilty to illegally copying and uploading DVD screeners of 'The Revenant' and 'The Peanuts Movie,' unreleased films that he acquired while working on a studio lot.
"As the Academy Awards ceremony this weekend highlights, the entertainment industry is the economic cornerstone of the Central District of California," said US Attorney Eileen Decker said in the statement. "The defendant's conduct harmed the very industry that was providing his livelihood as well as the livelihood of others in Southern California."
The FBI began an immediate investigation after a dozen DVD screeners appeared over the holidays including high-profile films like The Big Short, Revenant, Spotlight and more.
"The FBI will continue to pursue those who steal intellectual property, a crime that negatively impacts the U.S. economy, and in the case of a movie leak, victimizes everyday workers in the entertainment industry," David Bowdich, assistant director of the FBI's Los Angeles field office, said in the statement.
Moriarty could face up to three years but will likely see less for his plea deal.
Source:
THR