Movie piracy lands Wheeling man 18 months probation

For his participation in a movie pirating scheme that prosecutors said netted him $500 a week, an out-of-work Wheeling man will spend 18 months on felony probation and perform community service.

David Perez, of the 400 block of East Merle Lane, pleaded guilty last week to unlawful use of an unidentified sound and visual recording device, a felony that carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison.

A confidential informant purchased pirated DVDs for $2.50 each from the 42-year-old Perez as part of a Mount Prospect police sting. Wheeling police and the Motion Picture Association of America's anti-piracy unit also participated in the investigation.

A search of Perez's home uncovered more than 10,000 pirated DVDs, along with 15 DVD duplicating machines and $3,000 cash, prosecutors said.