Federal regulators have shut down a pirate radio station operating from a rural property in eastern Washington, marking one of the most unusual enforcement actions yet under the FCC’s stepped-up anti-piracy campaign. The unlicensed broadcaster was transmitting on 94.3 FM without authorization, using a homemade antenna and makeshift studio inside a barn on private ranch land near Moses Lake.
According to the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau, field agents traced the signal after receiving interference complaints from a licensed commercial station in the area. When investigators arrived at the site, they discovered a full-scale radio operation complete with a mixing board, microphones, and a handwritten schedule of country music blocks and local commentary.
The unnamed operator reportedly claimed he was “just keeping the town company” and did not realize a license was required to broadcast over FM frequencies. He voluntarily surrendered the equipment after being issued a formal Notice of Unlicensed Operation and a warning that continued transmissions could result in fines exceeding $2 million under the PIRATE Act.
Enacted in 2020, the PIRATE Act expanded the FCC’s authority and increased penalties for illegal broadcasting. While most enforcement has focused on urban areas—especially New York and Florida—this incident highlights the agency’s growing efforts to monitor rural and agricultural regions as well.
“We’re committed to protecting the integrity of the airwaves nationwide,” said Loyaan Egal, Chief of the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau. “Whether it’s a city rooftop or a ranch in Washington, unauthorized transmissions can interfere with public safety communications and licensed broadcasters who follow the rules.”
Local authorities were not involved in the raid, and no criminal charges have been filed. The FCC says it will continue to monitor the area for any reactivation of the illegal station.
This latest action is part of a broader push by the FCC, which issued more than 100 anti-piracy notices in the past year. Industry groups have welcomed the stepped-up enforcement, citing the need for a level playing field among broadcasters. Still, some critics argue the agency should offer more outreach and low-power alternatives for hobbyists who may not understand the regulatory landscape.