FACT’s Excellence Awards have recognised the exceptional efforts of police and other law enforcement individuals across the UK for their support in the fight against piracy. The awards ceremony, held on April 19 in Birmingham, honoured a total of 19 recipients who were involved in the successful prosecutions of some of the largest illegal streaming operations in the UK over the past few years.

The recipients included police officers from eight police services across the UK, namely Greater Manchester, Gwent, Lancashire, Merseyside, Metropolitan, West Mercia, West Midlands, and NWROCU (North-West Regional Organised Crime Unit). Officers from Hammersmith & Fulham Council (Trading Standards), National Trading Standards e-Crime Team, and GAIN (Government Agency Intelligence Network) were also recognised for their outstanding work.

Kieron Sharp, CEO FACT, said: “The hard work of these recipients and their agencies has not gone unnoticed, and it gives me great pleasure to commend them on receiving this award. These awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of those who have demonstrated dedication and commitment in tackling piracy, which is a serious criminal offence.”

Pete O’Doherty, Assistant Commissioner, City of London Police/NPCC Coordinator for Cyber and Economic Crime, added: “Piracy is a crime that causes immense damage and can give criminals immense profits. The outstanding work of those nominated and receiving these awards is absolutely vital in combatting that crime.”

The FACT Excellence Awards are sponsored by QEB Hollis Whiteman and recognise and honours those who have made significant contributions to the protection of intellectual property rights in the UK. FACT are committed to working with law enforcement agencies to tackle piracy and protect the rights of content creators. These awards highlight the importance of this collaborative effort.

Recipients that received a FACT Excellence Award are: