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.