Theodore counterintelligence
Theodore's counter-intelligence was a trial against Augustus and his allies who were plotting to take over the imperial crown. Theodore III he uncovered the plot, quickly arrested the principal actors, and in a closely watched trial, had some of the testimony drawn in his favor. The result was executions, life sentences and harsh intimidation of other opposition.
August's Ambition
Augustus, a distant cousin of Theodore III, began spreading the idea during a time of economic stagnation that the imperial crown was weak and that the empire needed a new ruler. He tried to gain support among the nobility and the court, using promises and bribes, but miscalculated several times. News of his activities eventually reached the emperor from several quarters.
Quick arrest
Theodore III he did not want to appear as a weak monarch and decided to act immediately. He had Augustus imprisoned in the same week and together with him he arrested fifteen other persons of various positions. The trial became a closely watched event, as it was not only a punishment for the conspirators, but also a public test of the strength of imperial power.
Truth edited for judgment
Theodore decided that the trial must end in his favor at all costs. He had some facts exaggerated and bribed several alleged witnesses so that the result could not threaten his authority. The trial ended with the execution of Augustus and five other people. Eight people were sentenced to life in prison, and the others were punished with heavy fines and long prison terms. Theodore thereby frightened anyone who would want to repeat a similar attempt.