The Failed Pacifist

Saudis Increase Punishment for Rape Victim

A 19 year old victim of a gang rape has had her punishment (for "illegal mingling") increased from 92 lashes to 200 lashes and six months in jail because she spoke out about the lenient sentence originally given the perpetrators. Her lawyer, who had his license to practice law taken away, vows to fight on.

"Basic Islamic law states that an appeal shall not harm the person appealing," said Al-Lahem, adding that lodging an appeal is the right of anyone accused of a crime and something crucial for a just trial. "Once this rule is ignored, then people who appeal verdicts are only left terrorized. From now on people will be apprehensive to appeal fearing they might be punished or have their sentences doubled. That's exactly what's happened to the rape victim, who only wanted justice," he said.

posted by Doran @ 9:59 AM