Ethiopian immigrant stands trial over daughter's mutilation

Lateef Mungin:

A father stands accused of the unthinkable: brutally cutting his daughter's genitals.

The girl was only 2.

Monday, activists from all over the world will be focused on a Gwinnett County courtroom as Khalid Adem, accused of cruelty to a child and aggravated battery for allegedly circumcising his daughter, goes on trial.

Adem, 30, was charged with aggravated battery and cruelty to children more than three years ago and, if convicted, could face 40 years in prison. He was born in Ethiopia, where circumcision is a common procedure for young girls.

Adem’s trial may be a landmark case for health and human rights activists fighting against the African custom they call genital mutilation. But for those close to the victim, this trial is about vindication and healing for a little girl who was forced to endure unbearable pain.

Trial starts for man accused of female genital mutilation

Trial set for man accused in mutilation

Equality Now Commends Georgia Legislature on Passing Law Prohibiting Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

Atlantans, Africans fight girls' 'circumcision'