EXCLUSIVE: FBI Says Wolverine-Type Leaks Put Claws In Economy

The online leak of the upcoming X-Men Origins: Wolverine film is a microcosm of copyright violations that have impacted the country's economy for the worse, FBI spokesperson Laura Eimiller told RadarOnline.com in an exclusive interview Thursday.

"Clearly, these losses in general affect the US economy in a big way," Eimiller said.

She said that the FBI has launched an investigation into the compromising of the movie, adding that the statutory maximum for said offense is five years in custody, plus fines.

Though rare that an upcoming film is leaked prior to its theatrical release, Eimiller told RadarOnline.com that bootlegging has been an ongoing problem for years, especially in Los Angeles, where the films emanate from.

The film's star, Hugh Jackman, told reporters Wednesday he was heartbroken by the news the would-be blockbuster was already circulating through underground media.

"It's a serious crime and there's no doubt it's very disappointing ... obviously, people are seeing an unfinished film. It's like a Ferrari without a paint job."

X-Men Origins: Wolverine  opens May 1st in the U.S.