A judge says a Bahamian man charged with hacking into celebrities' email accounts to steal unreleased movie and TV scripts and private sex tapes can be held without bail because he's a risk to flee. 

Federal Manhattan Judge Paul Engelmayer spoke Friday about Alonzo Knowles after hearing lawyers argue whether bail was appropriate.

Knowles pleaded not guilty to charges he violated copyright infringement and identity theft laws. The Freeport, Bahamas resident was arrested last month after meeting with an undercover federal agent. Prosecutors say Knowles had planned to sell 15 movie and television scripts for $80,000.

Defense lawyer Clay Kaminsky says his client is entitled to bail in part because he would face less than three years in prison if convicted. Outside court, Kaminsky declined comment.