Child Molestation Charges Against Russian Conductor/Pianist Dropped

[stopbush]

The media made a big deal over this when the charges were first leveled. I haven't seen the same enthusiasm reporting that the charges were dropped:

Child molestation investigation against Russian classical musician dropped

Mikhail Pletnev had been arrested and bailed over allegations he was involved in a child prostitution ring in Thailand

guardian.co.uk, Friday 3 December 2010 17.30 GMT

An investigation into accusations of child molestation by one of the world's leading classical musicians, Mikhail Pletnev, has been formally dropped without charges being pressed, the Russian National Orchestra (RNO) has confirmed. The investigation began in July, when Pletnev, 54 – the celebrated pianist who is the founder and conductor of the RNO – was arrested in Pattaya, a resort in Thailand, where he owns several properties.

There were allegations that he had been involved in a child prostitution ring and had molested a minor. After his arrest, Pletnev was released on bail, returning regularly to Pattaya under the terms prescribed by Pattaya district court. The bail restrictions have now been lifted. Over the summer Pletnev canceled prominent concert dates at the BBC Proms and the Edinburgh international festival, where he was due to conduct the RNO.

At the time, Pletnev said: "I do not wish to overshadow the wonderful music-making of the RNO and their tour in the UK with the current accusations surrounding my person. I will not comment on the ongoing investigation, but I hope the matter will be resolved speedily and it will be clear that I am innocent of the accusations against me. I look forward to returning to the UK with my orchestra soon."

According to the RNO's statement: "Mr Pletnev has always refuted the accusations made against him. He has been fully cooperative during the Thai authorities investigations."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2010/dec/03/mikhail-pletnev-investigation-dropped