Prosecutors: Russian lawmaker and jailed son plot escape from Seattle detention center

SEATTLE (AP) — Federal prosecutors say a member of the Russian parliament has been plotting with his son, held in a federal prison, to tamper with a witness, manipulate his case and possibly plan an escape.

Court documents filed this week say recorded phone conversations between Valery Seleznev and his son Roman have raised concerns about the safety of witnesses and the security of the prison.

Roman Seleznev is charged with hacking into U.S. businesses to steal credit card information that authorities say he later sold. He has pleaded not guilty to the 40-count indictment.

Prosecutors say the Seleznevs have used a code to discuss how to delay the case so help can be brought in.

The Consul General of the Russian Federation in Seattle and Roman Seleznev's lawyer did not immediately respond to messages Thursday seeking comment.