Iowa inmate gets brief release to watch ballgame in Kansas City

KEOSAUQUA, Iowa (AP) - An Iowa judge has allowed an inmate a break from jail to watch his beloved Boston Red Sox in person.

Magistrate Judge Benny Waggoner temporarily released Van Buren County Jail inmate Randy Barker on Wednesday so he could watch the Kansas City Royals host the Red Sox with his father and brother.

Barker was serving a 10-day sentence for interference with official acts and violation of a protective order.

His attorney, Margaret King, argued for Barker's release, saying ball games are among the few pleasures he has in life. Waggoner says the respite was "reasonable under the circumstances."

With Barker in attendance, the Red Sox trounced the Royals 9-2. Barker was back in jail Thursday.

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Information from: The Ottumwa Courier