An acclaimed Russian pianist/conductor facing child sex abuse charges in Thailand returned to the Southeast Asian state on Tuesday to have his bail extended.
"I am to appear in court tomorrow, September 15. I will go there with my Thai lawyer," Mikhail Pletnev said.
He plans to spend some time in Thailand and, if he gets permission to travel, will leave the country to begin a tour due to start on September 25.
"My lawyer assures me that permission will be granted and I will be able to continue my work," he said.
Pletnev, who is the conductor for the Russian National Orchestra, was charged with raping a 14-year-old boy in July. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years behind bars. Pletnev denies all charges against him.
Pletnev has to return to the resort town of Pattaya every 12 days to renew his $9,000 bail. He is allowed to travel abroad so long as he holds to his bail agreement.
BANGKOK, September 14 (RIA Novosti)
