Kim Dotcom says he is broke, spent millions on his legal defense
Megaupload founder Kim Dotcom said he is "broke," after spending upwards of $10 million on legal expenses, and is now forced to represent himself at a bail hearing next week. The Simpson Grierson law firm stepped down representation of Dotcom two weeks ago, but hasn't issued a public statement regarding the case. The FBI says Dotcom received more than $200 million in "criminal proceeds," as Dotcom traveled the world, living an extremely high-profile lifestyle.
"The [US authorities] have certainly managed to drain my resources and dehydrate me, and without lawyers I am defenseless," Dotcom recently said. "They used that opportunity to try and get my bail revoked and that's what I'm facing."
Dotcom faces extradition to the United States to face piracy charges - as the US government continues to be heavily influenced by copyright groups, lobbying politicians and lawmakers - as Dotcom wished he didn't try to become involved in New Zealand politics. In addition to dumping millions into the failed campaign, many Dotcom supporters eventually turned on him.