Court rejects doc's bid over kidney

MINEOLA Dr. Richard Batista held a news conference last month, claiming he was entitled to the kidney compensation because Dawnell Batista was denying him visits with their three children.

In a 10-page ruling, matrimonial referee Jeffrey Grob (Grahb) said Batista's claim was without merit. The court ruled the kidney, donated in 2001 during happier times in the marriage, was a gift.

Grob said a wide range of items are considered marital property - but donated organs would not be among them.

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