The six defendants, all former information technology workers or consultants of Fox Cable Networks, were charged with conspiracy to commit copyright infringement after an investigation by the U.S. Secret Service and the FBI, U.S. Attorney's spokesman Thom Mrozek said.

During an internal investigation, Fox informed federal agencies after discovering a server containing pirated movies, games, and other software. Because of the Fox Entertainment Group's (the parent of Fox Cable Networks) zero tolerance policy for piracy, a swift and immediate investigation was launched.

Defendants Kevin Sarna, 36, Jonathan O'Brien, 30, Christopher Willis, 31, Lisa Yamamoto, 45, Peter Mariano, 25, and Garry Martin, 32, each face five years in prison if convicted.