A Detroit-area doctor charged with performing genital mutilation on girls in a Muslim sect will be released from jail as she awaits trial.
A judge on Tuesday was persuaded to grant bond to Dr. Jumana Nagarwala after supporters pledged to pay more than $4 million if she flees the country. Federal Judge Bernard Friedman called it a "very comprehensive package."
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In February, Nagarwala allegedly performed the procedure on two 7-year-old girls at a clinic in Livonia. According to court documents, they were brought there by their mothers.
in the criminal affidavit, the 7-year-old girl was told she was brought to Detroit for a "special girls trip."
The child victim also stated that she said she had to go to the doctor "to get the germs out." Upon a medical exam on April 11, a doctor determined that the child's genitals had been altered or removed. The child identified Dr. Nagarwala as the doctor who performed the procedure.
The affidavit also alleges that there are Michigan victims as well.
“According to the complaint, despite her oath to care for her patients, Dr. Nagarwala is alleged to have performed horrifying acts of brutality on the most vulnerable victims,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Blanco. “The Department of Justice is committed to stopping female genital mutilation in this country, and will use the full power of the law to ensure that no girls suffer such physical and emotional abuse.”
Some of the girls were brought from out of state for the illegal procedure. FGM is considered the complete removal or partial removal of the clitoris, known as a clitoridectomy. It is internationally recognized as a violation of the human rights of women and girls.
