US Opens Criminal Probe into Doping by Russian Athletes

The U.S. Justice Department has opened an investigation into state-sponsored doping by dozens of Russia's top athletes, the New York Times reported on Tuesday, citing two people familiar with the case.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York is scrutinizing Russian government officials, athletes, coaches, anti-doping authorities and anyone who might have benefited unfairly from a doping regime, the Times said.

Prosecutors are believed to be pursuing conspiracy and fraud charges, according to the newspaper.