By Park Si-soo
Staff Reporter

A Court has refused to grant bail to arrested Internet commentator Park Dae-sung, better known as ``Minerva,'' citing the possibility that he could flee.

The Seoul Central District Court said Thursday it dismissed the bailout petition from the popular blogger, indicted in late January on charges of spreading allegedly false financial information with the aim of hurting the public interest.

Judge Yoo Young-hyun said, ``We're afraid of his possibly fleeing after release.''

Park's attorney filed the petition with the court last month, claiming his release was necessary in order to better prepare for court hearings.

The attorney lamented the decision, saying, ``Prosecutors' questioning and investigation into relevant evidence is almost complete. All that remains is the court's ruling. As such, extending his detention is unnecessary.''

pss@koreatimes.co.kr