Trial date set for man accused of being world's largest facilitator of child porn

The extradition case of an Irishman who is wanted in the US and is alleged to be “the largest facilitator of child porn in the world” will be heard in May before the High Court.

Eric Eoin Marques, who is alleged to be the owner and administrator of an anonymous hosting site known as Freedom Hosting, is wanted by US authorities to face charges relating to conspiring to distribute and advertise child pornography, and advertising and distributing child pornography.

The 28-year-old, with an address at Mountjoy Square in central Dublin, has been in custody since his arrest in August 2013, after he was refused bail over concerns he represented a flight risk and that he may abscond or interfere with evidence in the case.

Today lawyers for Marques said the case is listed to go before the High Court on May 11 (at 11am) and should not last more than three to four days.

Ms Justice Donnelly said there was no need for Mr Marques to attend the mention on February 10 and she was allowing five weeks for each party to file their first submissions.

Mr Marques is to be remanded in custody until May 11.