Legal Question in Technology Law in Pennsylvania

illegal signal theft device - direct tv programming

In 2000 we unwisely pruchased a device over the internet that programs the access card for direc tv signal. The device never did work and we chalked it up to a costly mistake and disposed of it. Now, 3 yrs later we get a letter from DirecTV stating they have business records that show the purchase of this device.The charge is purchasing illegal signal theft equipment with the intent to steal services.They will forgo litigation for a price of $3500.00 and sign a few papers or they will initate proceedings in Federal District Court. We spoke with the End User Development Group Investigator and he advised they mean business and will prosecute for $10,000.00 - $100,00.00. Should we take the offer? Please advise, thank you.


Asked on 9/24/02, 12:04 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

William Marvin Cohen, Placitella & Roth, P.C.

Re: illegal signal theft device - direct tv programming

I don't think any responsible attorney can give you advice online, and I'm posting this reply to explain why. And hope that others who read this won't make the same mistake.

First, and foremost, in your query, you've just confessed, in public, to the basic elements of a crime. Not a good idea. I mean, you essentially admit that you purchased a device, with the intent to get TV signals, knowing it was illegal.

Second, with the amount at stake, you need specific legal advice, through a confidential lawyer/client relationship. This forum can only provide general comments about the law. You need to consult a lawyer who can review the facts, see what your exposure really is, research the law, and give you a professioanl opinion. Even a lawyer who was experienced in the signal theft law (and I'm not) wouldn't be able to do that online.

Finally, remember that you got into this mess trying to shortcut and save a few bucks. Trying to solve it on the cheap might just get you in deeper.

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Answered on 9/24/02, 8:14 am
Scott Diamond DIAMONDLAWYER

Re: illegal signal theft device - direct tv programming

you need to hire a criminal attny asap. where are yo in the state, I can make a referral

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Answered on 9/24/02, 9:52 am
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: illegal signal theft device - direct tv programming

We have dealt with DirecTV on behalf of clients in the situation you describe. Each case is individual, but generally (1) it is not up to DirecTV whether or not one is prosecuted for illegally possessing such equipment; it is up to the local United States Attorney. (2) It is significant in our experience that no services were stolen. (3) Our clients did not pay the amount asked for. We recommend you seek competent legal counsel for detailed information and do so promptly. Your Bar Association can recommend attorneys in your area who do this work. Initial consultations/case evaluations are usually done at no cost - ask first. Good luck.

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Answered on 9/24/02, 3:55 pm


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