Zahra's father out of jail, but monitored

April 20, 2011

HICKORY — The father of a murdered 10-year-old cancer survivor is no longer in federal custody but has to wear an ankle monitor to check his whereabouts.

Australian native Adam Baker is charged with identity theft and obtaining property by false pretense. He posted $10,000 bond but was turned over to federal immigration officials who have prohibited him from leaving the country.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman Temple Black said Wednesday that Baker was not in custody, but declined to elaborate.

Baker's lawyer Mark Killian said Baker was released but must wear an ankle monitor.

Baker is the father of 10-year-old Zahra Baker, who was reported missing Oct. 9. Investigators later found her remains.

Her stepmother, Elisa Baker, is charged with second-degree murder and obstruction of justice.