Rifqa Bary
In a contentious court hearing, Orange County (Florida) Circuit Judge Daniel Dawson has stated his preference for the case involving Rifqa Bary, the Ohio teen who ran away to Florida two months ago and has stated she does not want to return to Ohio based on fears her devout Muslim parents will kill her because of her conversion to Christianity, be handled via mediation between all involved parties.
The judge's opinion was challenged by a lawyer for Bary's parents, who argued that mediation would be "useless." The lawyer also accused Ms. Bary's lawyer John Stemberger of assorted acts and biases, asking that he be removed from the case. The judge denied the request, although he did state the parent's lawyer was welcome to file a motion for Stemberger's removal should he so choose.
Judge Dawson imposed a strict gag order on all principals involved in the case. He also denied a motion by the Orlando Sentinel to gain access to the report on the case filed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. In a hearing earlier today the judge ordered the report sealed. During the hearing just concluded, the judge stated this ruling would remain in effect for the next ten days.
The judge ruled that Ms. Bary will remain with the foster home in which she has been placed by Florida officials for the time being.
The next hearing is scheduled for September 29th.
Previous reports (oldest on top):
Will there be peace for Fathima Rifqa Bary?
Court hearing set for today in Rifqa Bary case
Florida state report on Rifqa Bary sealed; hearing continues later today
Comments
If folks follow the "Islamic Cultural Center may have promoted value of killing apostates" related article, you can a link to the Petition for Dependancy Rifqa's lawyer submitted.
It's pretty damning stuff, outlining the more extremist elements of Salafism her family appear to be associated with.
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