Dominican Authorities Lift Surveillance on Joshua Riibe in Missing Student Case
Joshua Riibe’s police surveillance has ended, and his passport may be returned soon as investigations into Sudiksha Konanki’s disappearance continue. Riibe is not charged and is no longer a person of interest. The Konanki family is seeking a formal declaration of her death while trusting authorities in the ongoing investigation.
Dominican Republic authorities have decided to lift police surveillance on Joshua Riibe, linked to the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki, a 22-year-old student from Loudoun County, Virginia. His passport is anticipated to be returned by Thursday, as investigations continue into Konanki’s case. This decision came after a habeas corpus hearing where Riibe sought release following his weekend detainment, prompting his father’s arrival from Iowa to support him.
The Dominican Republic’s Prosecutor’s Office confirmed to ABC News that Riibe would receive his passport. Initially, Riibe’s legal team had approached the local U.S. embassy for assistance in obtaining a new passport. Subsequently, Loudoun County deputies also lifted their designation of Riibe as a person of interest after conducting interviews with him, his father, and his lawyer on March 13.
Although Riibe was under police surveillance following the last sighting of Konanki in Punta Cana on March 6, he has yet to be charged with any wrongdoing. Riibe recounted spending time with Konanki at the beach shortly before she went missing. The court ruled that Riibe could move freely as he was categorized as a witness instead of a suspect, though the return of his passport was beyond the judge’s authority.
Konanki, a resident of Chantilly, Virginia, and a University of Pittsburgh student, was vacationing in the Dominican Republic for spring break. During a previous hearing, Riibe described lengthy police interviews that restricted his movements, expressing a wish to return home. A representative from Riibe’s defense expressed solidarity with Konanki’s family during this challenging period, hoping for her safe return.
The Konanki family has requested a formal declaration of her death, indicating their trust in the ongoing investigation while understanding the legal requirements. They are prepared to complete any necessary paperwork. A judge is expected to make a ruling concerning this matter on March 28.
In summary, Joshua Riibe’s police surveillance has been lifted as he is no longer considered a suspect in the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki. His passport return is scheduled for Thursday amid ongoing investigations. The Konanki family has requested a formal death declaration, emphasizing their confidence in authorities. A judicial ruling is anticipated on March 28.
Original Source: fox17.com
