Teen Accused In Taped Beating Asks Judge To Let Her Tell Story

A former Polk County cheerleader is accused of brutally beating another girl on videotape and wanting the world to know it. She asked a judge Tuesday if she could go on tour, telling her violent story to Good Morning America and Dr. Phil.

VIDEO REPORT: Alleged Teen Beating Ringleader Denied RequestINJURY IMAGES:Photos Show Black Eyes, Bruises On Girl After BeatingMUG SHOTS:See Photos Of All 8 Suspects Arrested In AttackARCHIVE:Read Previous Reports On Polk County Beating

The judge said no to 17-year-old Mercedes Nichols, who has been on house arrest since being released from jail on bond two months ago. When a Polk County judge asked why she wants permission to leave home, she quietly responded.

"I'd like to go to church on Sunday with family. I have to get a job to get my diploma," she said.

Nichols and her lawyer were in court asking the judge to ease up on some of her out-of-jail restrictions. She is one of eight teenagers accused of beating up 17-year-old Victoria Lindsay and videotaping the attack.

Nichols' lawyer also asked the judge to let Nichols travel out of state and allow her to do interviews. Dr. Phil, Good Morning America and The Today Show have all made requests.

"So she can actually speak to the media to defend herself. Right now, the victim and other people are openly speaking to the media whenever they want," said James Holz, Nichols' lawyer.

The judge ruled he'll ease up on Nichols' house arrest so she can do things like go to work or church, but her other requests were denied.

"Also, I'm going to allow you to pursue employment but, other than that, all the pre-trial conditions will remain in effect," said Polk County Judge Judge Keith Spoto.

With Nichols unable to comment, her mom spoke out on the judge's decision.

"Feel like she wanted to do a public apology and she wanted to get her side out there and I think that it's unfair that everybody else gets to talk but my daughter," Christina Garcia said.

Garcia denies wanting Mercedes to appear on the Dr. Phil show specifically, even though the show posted her bond.

Previous Stories: June 2, 2008: Teen Charged In Videotaped Beating Wants To Speak Publicly May 30, 2008: High-Profile Attorney To Represent Girl Beaten In Videotaped Attack May 16, 2008: Screamed Slurs Were Prelude To Infamous Videotaped Beating