Accused 'Silk Road' ringleader indicted in Manhattan

The alleged founder of the hidden online illicit drug market called Silk Road was indicted in Manhattan federal court Tuesday.

Ross William Ulbricht, who was arrested in San Francisco in October, is accusedof owning and operating Silk Road under the name "Dread Pirate Roberts" since 2011. Ulbricht, 29, is charged with conspiracy to traffic narcotics, running a criminal enterprise, conspiracy to commit computer hacking and money laundering.

Ulbricht's New York-based attorney, Josh Dratel, said in a statement his client would plead not guilty at his arraignment.

"The indictment was expected and does not contain any new factual allegations. We look forward to beginning the discovery process and preparing Ross' defense," Dratel's statement said.