Family of Joshua Riibe Claims Irregular Detention Conditions in Sudiksha Konanki Disappearance Case
The family of Joshua Riibe, the last person known to have seen University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki before her disappearance in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, has raised concerns over his detention conditions. Riibe, a 22-year-old senior at St. Cloud State University, was detained by Dominican authorities following the disappearance of Konanki on March 6, 2025. His parents allege that he was held under “irregular conditions,” including extended interrogations without the presence of official translators or legal counsel until March 12, 2025. They also claim that his passport was confiscated, and he was subjected to repeated questioning without being formally charged or informed of his rights .
In response to these allegations, Riibe’s legal team filed a habeas corpus petition in a Dominican court, challenging the legality of his detention. The court hearing is scheduled for March 18, 2025, to address these concerns and determine the appropriateness of his continued detention .
Konanki, a 20-year-old pre-med student, was last seen on the beach at the Riu República Hotel in Punta Cana, accompanied by Riibe and others. Surveillance footage captured the group entering the beach early in the morning, but only Riibe and one other person returned later. Riibe reported that they were caught in a strong current while swimming, and he managed to bring Konanki ashore before losing sight of her. He stated he last saw her walking in knee-deep water before he fell asleep on a beach chair .
Dominican authorities have not officially named Riibe as a suspect but have questioned him extensively due to inconsistencies in his statements. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining all possibilities, including accidental drowning and potential foul play
The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for the Dominican Republic, advising increased caution due to concerns about violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault .
As the legal proceedings unfold, both the families involved and the public await further developments in this complex and tragic case.
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