Pay-TV operator Dish Network has been ordered to pay fines and damages totalling $280 million (€249m) as penalties over its extensive use of illegal ‘telemarketing’ methods to promote its DTH services.

Illinois, US District Judge Sue Myerscough ruled that “millions and millions” of such calls had been made, and the fines are reported to be the highest-ever in such cases.

Judge Myerscough awarded $168 million to be paid to the US government, and $112 million to be shared between California, North Caroline, Ohio and Illinois. The judge said she was aware, and rejected, Dish’s arguments that it was short of cash.

Dish Network had previously settled lawsuits with 46 US states over misuse of telemarketing.

Dish, in statement, said it rejected the findings and would appeal.

Categories: Articles, Broadcast, Regulation