White Lake Girl Can Compete in 4-H During Lawsuit

MITCHELL, S.D. (AP) - A federal judge says she won't reverse her decision to allow a 16-year-old South Dakota girl to compete in 4-H while a lawsuit over her alleged cheating proceeds in court.

Officials with 4-H had appealed Judge Karen Schreier's order, saying that allowing Bayley Kroupa to compete would tarnish the reputation and integrity of 4-H. The Daily Republic newspaper reports that Schreier denied the appeal, saying any potential harm to 4-H was outweighed by potential harm to the White Lake girl.

Bayley was banned from 4-H competition for allegedly showing a swine at the South Dakota State Fair that had previously been entered at the Missouri State Fair, a violation of the 4-H code of ethics.

Bayley's father has sued, seeking money damages for alleged humiliation and civil rights violations.

• What do you think? Should she be able to compete?