BAGHDAD, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- Relatives say that the Iraqi reporter who was arrested for throwing his shoes at U.S. President George Bush has not been allowed visitors for almost a month.
Dhiyaa al-Saadi, the lawyer representing Muntader al-Zaidi, 29, said Thursday that his client's medical records suggest that he was telling the truth when he said he was beaten and tortured after his arrest, The New York Times reported. Saadi said that Zaidi was examined by two doctors within a week of his arrest and they reported bruising, especially on the limbs, a missing tooth and a burn mark.
Zaidi was arrested after he hurled both his shoes at Bush during a news conference in Baghdad on Dec. 14. The president, appearing with Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, ducked.
Uday al-Zaidi said that his brother has been allowed only two visitors, both in the first week of his detention. He said he fears what will happen if his brother, who could receive a seven-year sentence, is convicted.
"I don't know his fate," Uday said. "I am sure they will kill him in prison."
