Courts / Dublin / Report
"Largest facilitator of child porn in the world" spent his money on McDonald's and escorts, court hears
Summary
Eric Eoin Marques, a 28-year-old resident of Mountjoy Square, Dublin, appeared in the High Court to apply for legal aid ahead of a judicial review of the DPP's decision not to prosecute him in Ireland. Marques is alleged to be the owner of Freedom Hosting and is wanted by US authorities for conspiring to distribute and advertise child pornography. He has been in custody since August last year after being refused bail due to flight risk concerns. During proceedings, Marques testified that he earned approximately €1.15 million between 2007 and 2012. He stated he gave €250,000 to his Romanian girlfriend and spent the remainder on daily expenses, including McDonald's, petrol, and escorts. He claimed his funds were frozen by the FBI and that his father paid his legal fees. Under cross-examination, Marques admitted he did not remember where the rest of the money went and declined to answer questions about tax returns, citing potential self-incrimination. Counsel for the Attorney General argued that Marques' account raised more questions than answers. Mr Justice John Edwards noted the lack of documentary evidence supporting Marques' assertions. The judge indicated he would rule on the legal aid application the following morning. If convicted, Marques could face the remainder of his natural life in prison, as the four charges could result in a sentence totaling 100 years.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: "Largest facilitator of child porn in the world" spent his money on McDonald's and escorts, court hears. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- February 2013 Incident
- 2007 to 2012 Other
- 2006 and 2013 Other
- 2007 and 2010 Other
- 2007 and 2012 Other
- 2014-03-11 Publication
Why: Giving evidence, Marques said his father had been paying legal fees on his behalf because his money was frozen by the FBI. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Outcome: If convicted Marques could face the remainder of his natural life in prison as the four charges could result in a sentence totaling 100 years.
Places mentioned
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