Ariel Castro Deemed Mentally Fit To Stand Trial, Denied Visitation Request With Amanda Berry's Daughter
July 3 2013, Published 5:16 p.m. ET
Cleveland kidnapper Ariel Castro may be delusional, but he's fit to stand trial. That's what Cleveland judge Michael Russo decided today in a pre-trial hearing for Castro's ongoing kidnapping and murder trial.
Castro stunned the courtroom when he raised his voice to request visitation with the 6-year-old daughter he had with Amanda Berry as a result of raping her.
"I just think that would be inappropriate," Judge Russo said.
Despite his unthinkable request, Castro was declared fit to stand trial.
The case will proceed with a meeting on July 11 to discuss the possibility of seeking the death penalty for Castro, who is currently being held on an $8 million bail for kidnapping Amanda Berry, Michelle Knight and Gina DeJesus and keeping them held captive for the better part of a decade.
So far, Castro has plead not guilty to the 329 counts facing him, but he may change his statement, according to reports, if the death penalty is ruled out.
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The trial is currently scheduled to begin on August 5.
His victims are currently rebuilding their lives, as RadarOnline.com has reported.