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RCMP Shuts Down DVD Counterfeiting Operation

RCMP [1]The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Federal Enforcement Section of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police [1] (RCMP) executed nine Search Warrants at business locations in the GTA, as part of an investigation dubbed Project OCREEK, involving the manufacture and sales of counterfeit DVDs.

Of significance to the investigation is the seizure of tens of thousands of packaging materials such as plastic sleeves and jewel cases used to produce and distribute the counterfeit DVDs. Also seized were over 50,000 counterfeit DVDs, 20 burners and $20,000 cash. The DVDs included new North American titled movies currently playing in the theatres. It is alleged that pirated copies are being manufactured, distributed and offered for a sale amount of between $2.00 to $20.00.

“Piracy is a widespread problem not only in the GTA and North America, but worldwide.  Legitimate businesses and Canadian jobs are adversely impacted by Intellectual Property crime. Criminal organizations involved in piracy reap the benefits and have no regard for the negative effects this activity has on the Canadian economy,” says Inspector Todd Gilmore, Officer in Charge of the GTA Federal Enforcement Section.

Charged with one count of fraud contrary to Section 380(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada and seven counts contrary to the Copyright Act is:

1. Chak Hing CHONG (Tony) , 38 years old of Markham

Also charged with Copyright Act offences are:

2. Nguyey Quynh DUONG of Brampton
3. Lai CHing Irene CHUNG of Mississauga
4. Han DENG of Brampton
5. Niao Na CHI of Mississauga
6. Tian DAI of Mississauga

The investigation is still ongoing, the first court appearance for the listed accused is scheduled for June 23, 2011 at the Brampton court.