Cost of modified game consoles: 10 years in prison

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If you’ve got the know-how on modifying the Wii, Xbox or Playstation, well, good for you. Just don’t try modifying it so it can play pirated video games.

But if you did – and there’s nothing I can do to stop you – I suggest you better be careful or you’ll end up like this fellow.

Matthew Crippen, a 27-year-old college student from Southern California, is in a very big trouble because of trying to save a few bucks by making his game consoles play pirated video games.

He has been arrested on federal charges but was released Monday night after posting a $5,000 bond according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

According to an article from AP, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents got a tip from the Entertainment Software Association and were able to conduct a search on Crippen’s home in May.

If convicted, Crippen will face a 10-year imprisonment, having been indicted on two counts by a federal grand jury. His arraignment is scheduled on August 10.

So a word of advice? Saving is a good thing, but saving money by buying counterfeit or illegal stuff? Don’t bother. Chances are, karma (or whatever you call it) will come knocking at your door and you’ll be paying a whole lotta money in return, one way or another. J

Source: http://tech.yahoo.com/news/ap/20090804/ap_on_hi_te/us_socal_video_game_arrest