Famed Russian Pianist Charged With Raping Boy In Thailand

Mikhail Pletnev is the founder and artistic director of the Russian National Orchestra.

Thai police said internationally acclaimed Russian pianist and conductor Mikhail Pletnev has been charged with raping a 14-year-old boy in Thailand.

Pletnev is the founder and artistic director of the Russian National Orchestra.

In 2005, he won a Grammy award for best chamber music performance.

If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in prison.

Police said he was detained on July 5 but was released on a $9,000 bail.

Pletnev denies any wrongdoing and says his deetention was a "misunderstanding."

He has been living for the past few years in Thailand, where police said he owns a restaurant and several businesses.

compiled from agency reports