NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden better off in Russia than US, says father

The father of NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden has said his son is better off staying in Russia.

Lon Snowden said that Edward has been so vilified by the Obama administration and members of Congress that it is better for him to stay in Russia.

According to CBS News, Lon had been working with lawyers to try and find a way his son could get a fair trial in the U.S.

He has been charged in a US federal court with violating the Espionage Act by leaking details of NSA surveillance.

But in a telephone interview, Edward's father said he has lost faith that his son would be treated fairly by the Justice Department.

According to the report, he now thinks his 30-year-old son is better off avoiding the U.S. if possible until an administration that respects the Constitution comes into office.

His father said he thinks Russia is probably the best place to seek asylum because it is most likely to withstand U.S. pressure.

On NBC's 'Today' show Friday, Lon said there's been a concerted effort by some members of Congress to 'demonize' his son, the report said

Lon and his lawyer, Bruce Fein, released a letter Friday asking Obama to dismiss the criminal charges against Edward Snowden.