We're pleased to report a major development in the case of Russian programmer Dmitry Sklyarov; it's being reported that Dmitry will be allowed to return home to Russia, and that all criminal charges against him will eventually be dropped!

The case against his employer, Elcomsoft, continues, and the underlying DMCA-related issues remain unresolved, but it seems likely that Dmitry will be able to rejoin his family in time for the New Year.

As part of the deal, Sklyarov will be required to testify in the case against Elcomsoft. A news release put out by his attorneys noted that "The story Dmitry has to tell is exactly the same regardless of which side calls him to testify. Dmitry's story has not changed since that day in July, when the FBI arrested him in Las Vegas, and he is quite happy to tell his story again and again, if need be."

According to the agreement he reached with the government, Sklyarov will not be prosecuted for one year, or until the trial against Elcomsoft is completed, whichever is longer. After that time, the charges will be dropped if he abides by his promise to testify in the case. During that time, Sklyarov may return to Russia.