A federal judge has ruled for the release of Melissa L. Farris, who faces charges for vandalizing the World War II Memorial in Washington. This decision came despite the Justice Department’s request for pre-trial detention.

The Justice Department argued that Farris, 41, poses a flight risk. Court records supported their request, highlighting her potential to evade trial. However, the judge concluded that she should not be held in detention before her trial takes place. The recent incident at the memorial occurred on August 13, drawing immediate legal attention.