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ORLANDO - A judge on Monday accused Gov. Jeb Bush's administration and welfare officials of exploiting the case of a disabled rape victim to build a national debate on fetal rights and abortion.
Circuit Judge Lawrence Kirkwood said in a judicial order that actions by the Department of Children and Families have been averse to the interests of the 23-year-old retarded woman, known in court papers as J.D.S. The woman became pregnant in a state-licensed group home.
The judge accused DCF and "the executive branch" of exploiting J.D.S.
Bush, who opposes abortion rights, supported efforts to have a guardian appointed for J.D.S.' fetus. Kirkwood rejected those attempts, but the matter is under review by a state appeals court.
The baby girl was born last month. Referred to as Baby S, she is in a foster home under DCF supervision.
Bush has been "steadfast" in his concern for J.D.S., said Alia Faraj, a spokeswoman. "This has been his focus and the impetus for his involvement."