FCC, Massachusetts Pirate Reach $7.2K Consent Decree
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, November 14, 2025 | 2:26pm CT |
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 Federal Communications Commission |
The FCC's Enforcement Bureau has reached a Consent Decree with Robert Bellinger of Cotuit, MA, resolving an investigation into the unauthorized "Three Bays Radio" operation on 93.1 MHz in and around Cotuit.
Under the settlement, Bellinger admits to the facts laid out in the Bureau's investigation, agrees to make a $7,200 voluntary contribution to the U.S. Treasury in monthly installments, and accepts a 20-year term during which an additional $32,800 penalty will come due if he defaults or reoffends.
The Decree also provides that if there is an "Event of Default," the unpaid balance will accrue interest at the U.S. Prime Rate plus 4.75%, along with any permitted penalties and collection charges, and will become immediately due and payable.
The case stems from an April 26, 2024 Notice of Apparent Liability (NAL) for Forfeiture that proposed a $40,000 fine against Bellinger for alleged pirate radio broadcasting in violation of Section 511 of the Communications Act and the Preventing Illegal Radio Abuse Through Enforcement (PIRATE) Act.
In his response to the NAL, Bellinger submitted financial information asserting he lacked the resources to pay the proposed forfeiture. The Consent Decree notes that a future finding that he materially misstated his financial condition -- or that he engages in new pirate radio activity or fails to make the required payments -- would trigger an Event of Default, bringing both the additional $32,800 contribution and collection measures into play.
As part of the agreement, Bellinger waives any right to seek administrative or judicial review or appeal of the Consent Decree or the Adopting Order, while retaining only the ability to challenge how the FCC interprets the Decree's terms.
