Dominican Republic authorities have lifted police surveillance on Joshua Riibe, linked to missing student Sudiksha Konanki. Riibe’s passport is expected to be returned soon, and he has been cleared as a person of interest. The case continues to unfold with ongoing investigations and legal actions from Konanki’s family seeking a formal declaration of her death.
The authorities in the Dominican Republic have decided to cease police surveillance over Joshua Riibe, a man linked to the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, a 22-year-old woman from Loudoun County, Virginia. Although Riibe is allowed to move freely, his passport has not been returned yet, but it is expected to be provided on Thursday while investigations continue into Konanki’s case.
The decision to lift the surveillance followed a habeas corpus hearing. Riibe’s defense team aimed for his release after his detainment over the weekend. His father traveled from Iowa to lend support during the hearing and remains until his son’s release.
On March 13, following an interview involving Riibe, his father, and his lawyer, the Loudoun County deputies no longer regard him as a person of interest. Riibe has not faced any charges but was under watch since Konanki’s disappearance after they were last seen at a hotel in Punta Cana on March 6.
Despite his release from surveillance, the court did not allow the return of Riibe’s passport as it was outside the judge’s jurisdiction to do so. Konanki, who was a University of Pittsburgh student, had visited the Dominican Republic for spring break.
During his court hearing, Riibe expressed frustration over being confined and desiring his return home. He mentioned being interrogated for extended hours and not being allowed to leave the premises without police supervision.
Representatives from Riibe’s defense expressed sympathy towards Konanki’s family during this distressing situation and emphasized their hope for her safe return. Meanwhile, Konanki’s family has formally requested a declaration of her death, trusting the investigation while being prepared for necessary legal actions. A ruling regarding this matter is anticipated on March 28.
In summary, Joshua Riibe is no longer under police surveillance concerning the case of Sudiksha Konanki, although his passport has yet to be returned. The Loudoun County deputies have cleared him of being a person of interest, and his family is actively supporting legal processes amid their distress over Konanki’s disappearance. The situation remains sensitive as a court ruling is expected soon.
Original Source: fox17.com
