News Organizations Challenge Glenrock Case Closure

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Several media organizations are challenging a decision to close initial court proceedings in the criminal prosecution of a Casper man accused of kidnapping and sexual abuse of a minor in last month's abduction of a Glenrock girl.

The Wyoming Press Association, several Wyoming newspapers and The Associated Press filed papers in Converse County District Court on Wednesday seeking a judicial ruling that it was improper to exclude the public from circuit court hearings involving 22-year-old defendant Robert J. Parks.

The Converse County Attorney's Office released Park's name only after he waived a preliminary hearing in circuit court and his case advanced to district court. Circuit Judge I. Vincent Case Jr. earlier had closed Park's initial court appearance to the public.