Judge approves restrictions in nursing home case

A judge has approved restrictions in the cases of two people accused of sexually abusing residents at the Albert Lea nursing home where they worked.

Freeborn County District Judge Steve Schwab on Thursday verbally approved an order restricting access to evidence in the case.

The Albert Lea Tribune reports that as part of the order he "admonished" the media and the parties against naming any victims.

Mark Anfinson, the attorney representing the paper, says it's not clear whether the "admonishment" is an order or just a request. He says an actual order would be an unconstitutional prior restraint on freedom of the press. And he says the other restrictions on access to evidence may violate state rules.

Anfinson said he would wait to see the judge's written order before responding formally.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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