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Judge Considers Closing Steubenville Rape Trial

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UPDATE 2:47 P.M. An attorney for one of two Ohio high school football players charged with raping a 16-year-old girl has withdrawn his motion to close the trial.

The attorney didn't explain why Friday during a hearing in Steubenville.
 
He previously raised concerns that an open trial could lead to potential witnesses on the defendant's behalf being intimidated.
 
The move means there's currently no motion to close the trial, though the girl's attorney said he'd be willing to make a similar motion.
 
Meanwhile, attorneys for The Associated Press and other media presented arguments supporting an open trial to ensure public confidence in the proceedings.
 
The judge said he'd consider their statements but wouldn't rule Friday.
 
The athletes are accused of attacking the West Virginia girl after an alcohol-fueled party in August.

An Ohio judge will hold a hearing Friday afternoon to decide if the trial of two Steubenville high school football players accused of rape should be closed.

The 16-year-old victim, her parents, one of the defendants and the state's attorney general are all pushing to close next month's trial to the public.

They argue the move would protect the accuser and to avoid possible witness intimidation.

The football players allegedly raped the girl at a party in August in Steubenville.

She is not a Steubenville High School student.