Russia files charges based on TV documentary alleging mass riot plot
MOSCOW - Russia's top investigative agency says it has filed criminal charges against an opposition leader's assistant, continuing a widespread crackdown on the movement against President Vladimir Putin.
The Investigative Committee said Thursday that Left Front member Konstantin Lebedev has been charged with plotting mass riots, and could face a jail term of up to ten years.
Investigators are relying on hidden camera footage aired by a Kremlin-friendly TV channel. The documentary claimed Lebedev's boss Sergei Udaltsov met with Georgian officials to raise money and overthrow the government.
Investigators say Lebedev denied the charges and refused to give evidence.
Officials interrogated Udaltsov, who is also a suspect, on Wednesday and searched his home before releasing him on the condition that he should not leave Moscow.
