High-level politician remanded in custody

A district court judge for Ústí nad Labem has ruled that regional governor David Rath – charged with corruption – will remain in custody. The governor of Central Bohemia was caught on Monday with seven million crowns – an apparent bribe – on his person; if convicted and found guilty he could spend up to 12 years behind bars. The court on Wednesday said there was a danger that if released ahead of trial, Mr Rath could influence witnesses, attempt to escape or continue in criminal activities. State prosecutor Lenka Bradáčová has not yet said whether she will recommend for others arrested in the case to also be held. Along with Mr Rath, the police arrested seven others on Monday – four men and three women -including Kateřina Pancová, the head of Kladno Hospital and a close Rath associate.

Author: Jan Velinger