All photo’s contained here in, are copyrighted images. Any unauthorized use, stripping of watermarks, reposting with watermarks intact is prohibited by law and will be enforced.
Criminal penalties
Criminal charges are typically reserved for willful infringement done for commercial gain. These penalties are outlined under 17 U.S.C. § 506(a) and 18 U.S.C. § 2319.
Misdemeanor: Infringement that involves a retail value of more than $1,000 can be charged as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in prison.
Felony (first offense): Offenses that involve the reproduction or distribution of at least 10 copies of a work with a retail value over $2,500 can result in up to five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.
Felony (repeat offense): Second or subsequent felony offenses carry a more severe penalty, with imprisonment of up to 10 years.
Restitution: Infringers may also be ordered to repay the copyright owner for financial losses caused by the violation.