A federal jury in Las Vegas has convicted Yoany Vaillant, a Cuban citizen and U.S. permanent resident, for his role in operating an illegal streaming service known as Jetflicks. The conviction marks the conclusion of a case involving eight defendants accused of running one of the largest unauthorized television show streaming services in the United States.
Vaillant, 43, worked as a computer programmer for Jetflicks, which allowed users to stream and download copyrighted television episodes without permission from copyright owners. The service boasted a catalog that surpassed major legal platforms like Netflix and Hulu. Vaillant collaborated with Kristopher Dallmann and Jared Jaurequi at Jetflicks, both of whom were previously convicted on similar charges.
During his tenure at Jetflicks, Vaillant contributed significantly to maintaining and enhancing the service's operations. He helped automate processes related to downloading, processing, syncing, uploading, and streaming infringing content. Evidence presented during the trial demonstrated that Vaillant and his co-conspirators sourced infringing material from pirate websites worldwide using automated software.
The operation affected major copyright holders across the U.S., resulting in substantial financial losses for the television show and streaming industries. Vaillant was among eight individuals indicted in 2019 by authorities in the Eastern District of Virginia for their involvement with Jetflicks.
Co-defendant Darryl Polo admitted guilt to several charges related to Jetflicks and another illegal site he managed, receiving a prison sentence of nearly five years. Another co-defendant, Luis Villarino, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges linked to Jetflicks.
The case was transferred to Nevada in 2022 for trial proceedings. The court separated Vaillant's trial from those of Dallmann, Jaurequi, Douglas Courson, Felipe Garcia, and Peter Huber—all found guilty last June. Dallmann faced additional convictions beyond conspiracy charges.
Sentencing for all involved parties is scheduled for February 3rd and 4th next year. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri announced the verdict alongside U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson and FBI officials David Sundberg from Washington Field Office.
The FBI Washington Field Office led the investigation with support from its Las Vegas counterpart. Senior Counsel Matthew A. Lamberti along with other Justice Department prosecutors are handling legal proceedings against those involved.