Megaupload Founder Kim Dotcom Denies Piracy

AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) — Kim Dotcom, the detained founder of the file-sharing website Megaupload, insists he is innocent and poses no flight risk.

Dotcom, 37, appeared at a bail hearing Monday at an Auckland court after police raided his mansion Friday and removed him from a safe room where they say he barricaded himself.

Police arrested Dotcom and three Megaupload employees on U.S. accusations they facilitated millions of illegal downloads of films, music and other content costing copyright holders at least $500 million in lost revenue. Extradition proceedings against them could last a year or more.

At North Shore District Court, Dotcom's lawyer said his client denies all charges, according to media reports. A judge said he will rule Tuesday or Wednesday on whether Dotcom will be granted bail.

Representing Dotcom is Robert Bennett, a prominent lawyer who has defended Bill Clinton against sexual harassment charges and Enron against allegations of corporate fraud.