FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 25, 2000

NEWS MEDIA CONTACTS: David Fiske (202) 418-0513.

The Federal Communications Commission today announced that an investigation by its Enforcement Bureau led to the July 20, 2000, arrest of Mr. William Flippo, Jupiter, Florida, for operating an unlicensed radio station on amateur radio frequencies and for intentionally causing interference to licensed amateur radio stations.

The Enforcement Bureau, responding to numerous complaints, had previously warned Mr. Flippo to stop his illegal activities and had issued him a $20,000 forfeiture. Despite the Enforcement Bureau's administrative response, Mr. Flippo did not stop his illegal activity.

The United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida charged Mr. Flippo with four counts of unlicensed radio operation (47 U.S.C. § 301) and four counts of interfering with licensed radio stations (47 U.S.C. § 333), which he allegedly committed between June 8, 1999, and April 11, 2000. The United States Marshals Service arrested Mr. Flippo at his Jupiter, Florida home, from which it also seized his radio transmitting equipment.

If convicted, Mr. Flippo could face up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for each violation.

Commenting on behalf of the Enforcement Bureau, Jane E. Mago, Deputy Chief, commended the members of the amateur radio community, who provided information leading to Mr. Flippo's arrest, and thanked the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida and the United States Marshals Service for their efforts in prosecuting the case.