Man caught with 4,000 fake CDs and DVDs is jailed

A MAN caught with 4,000 fake CDs and DVDs in his home worth £200,000 has been jailed for 16 months.

Paul McPhillips, 41, admitted making, offering and supplying counterfeit and unauthorised goods under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 at Edinburgh Sheriff Court yesterday.

Fiscal depute Isabel Clark said McPhillips had carried out a business in counterfeit illegal music from his council flat at Greendykes House, Greendykes Road, Edinburgh, via the internet. She said: "An officer went on to this website and, after several e-mails, a purchase was made. Upon receipt of this, the music was examined and it was confirmed they were copies because they were recorded on to recordable CDs and not the original."

Mrs Clark said a search of McPhillips' home was carried out and the fake goods were found. She added that the seized items were to be destroyed.

First-offender McPhillips also admitted possessing equipment for making the copies for sale.

Defence agent Jennifer Cameron said: "He separated from his partner of seven years and he has seven children in total from previous relationships.

"Following the breakdown of that relationship, he found himself depressed and isolated. He lost a full-time job and was placed in a part-time position and was struggling financially to support himself and provide for his children.

"He had always been involved in music and previously ran a karaoke business and was drawn into purchasing music on the internet."

Sheriff Frank Crowe told McPhillips: "I realise you had an expensive hobby, but you went far beyond the realm of private study and sharing with friends. Prison is the only option. Community service would send out the wrong message."