Thursday, August 15, 2013

US extradition case of 'largest child porn peddler on the planet' delayed for a month

Eric Eoin Marques arriving at the High Court in DublinEric Eoin Marques now formally wanted by US authorities over vile images but case will not be heard until September 11

The US is now formally seeking the extradition of a man described by the FBI as being the "largest facilitator of child porn on the planet".

Eric Eoin Marques is wanted over four charges linked to website images described as being extremely violent, graphic and depicting the rape and torture of pre-pubescent children.

 

The 28-year-old, who has Irish and US citizenship, appeared before the High Court in Dublin where extradition proceedings are under way.

Patrick McGrath, senior council for the attorney general of Ireland, said the accused was wanted in connection with the advertising, distribution and conspiracy to advertise and distribute child pornography.

The charges date from July 24, 2008 to July 29, 2013, two days before his arrest. He is accused of being the sole administrator of a hosting server where multiple websites were held and where it is alleged pornographic images were shared.

If convicted in the US he faces sentences of up to 30 years in prison. The court heard a formal request for extradition has been received from the US and a certificate granted by Ireland's Justice Minister Alan Shatter.

An FBI special agent previously told the court the suspect, who has an address on Mountjoy Square in Dublin's north inner city, is accused of being "the largest facilitator of child porn on the planet".

He has denied being the administer of an anonymous hosting server.

Marques was arrested two weeks ago in the Irish capital on a provisional warrant and refused bail amid fears he was a flight risk and would interfere with evidence.

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