FBI hunts down "24" pirate

A second search is still under way to find a second offender who uploaded the same episodes to YouTube, said sources, and who is identified in the affidavit by the name "ecototal." Though parent company Google complied with a subpoena to disclose the identity of that user, it has not led to an arrest.

Had the FBI not intervened, sources said Fox likely would have brought a civil action against Romero, and still has legal grounds to do so. Piracy has always been an utmost cause of concern to parent company News Corp. In 2004, Fox broke up a movie piracy ring that emanated from its own studio.

Romero is expected to surrender at the U.S. District Courthouse in Chicago on Tuesday, when arrangements will be made for his travel to Los Angeles, according to Thom Mrozek, spokesman for the Department of Justice.

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter