A shocking new update has emerged in the mysterious disappearance of 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki. The person of interest in the case has officially been released by a judge, igniting more questions in this deeply concerning investigation.
RELATED STORIES: Missing University of Pittsburgh Student Disappears While On Spring Break In The Dominican Republic — Here’s What The Person On Interest Is Saying
According to TMZ, a judge in the Dominican Republic granted permission for Joshua Riibe, the last known person to see Konanki alive, to return to the United States. The court ruling came just ten days after Riibe had been detained in Punta Cana, where he was questioned in connection to the 20-year-old student’s disappearance.
BREAKING: Judge Rules in Favor of Joshua Riibe in Habeas Corpus Hearing
A judge in the Dominican Republic has granted Joshua Steven Riibe a preventive habeas corpus, preventing authorities from arresting him in connection with the disappearance of Sudiksha Konanki. This ruling… pic.twitter.com/W8fFB1tUKy
— 𝕏
L̤̮E̤̮G̤̮
C̤̮Y̤̮
𝕏 (@iamlegacy23) March 18, 2025
Details of the Release: What Went Down in Court
On Tuesday, Riibe appeared before a judge, pleading to return home after what he and his legal team called an unlawful detainment. Standing before the court, Riibe said:
“I understand I’m here to help, but it’s been 10 days and I can’t leave.”
His attorneys argued that police had no legal basis to hold him as he had not been formally charged with any crime. Riibe’s legal team emphasized that their client had cooperated fully and was ready to assist in any way necessary.
Authorities Say Riibe Is No Longer Required to Stay in the Country
After reviewing the case, the judge gave Riibe permission to return to the United States, though it’s unclear whether he will continue to be involved in the ongoing investigation.
What We Know About the Disappearance of Sudiksha Konaki
Konaki has been missing since March 6, and her case has sparked concern both in the U.S. and the Dominican Republic. According to reports, she was last seen with Riibe, making him a key figure in the timeline of her disappearance.
Family Believes She Drowned — But Authorities Remain Unsure
Her family has now requested that she be declared deceased, citing a belief that she may have drowned. However, no conclusive evidence has yet been released to the public.
In a statement, Loudoun County Sheriff Michael Chapman addressed the family’s plea:
“While a final decision to make such a declaration rests with authorities in the Dominican Republic, we will support the Konanki family in every way possible as we continue to review the evidence and information made available to us in the course of this investigation.”
