Vasquez sought permission at a court hearing Thursday to attend his godson’s first birthday. He must keep wearing an ankle monitor, give pretrial services his travel itinerary and California lodging information, and stay in contact as directed. The judge also required him to sign a waiver of extradition before leaving Maricopa County, agreeing to forgo an extradition hearing if he does not return as required.

Ben Taylor, an attorney for the victims, opposed the request, calling the trip a vacation and saying the people he represents were afraid to leave their homes. After the hearing, Taylor said he disagreed with the decision but that attention should remain on the victims.

Vasquez’s attorney, Jess Lorona, argued the trip would be brief and that his client would remain monitored. Lorona described Vasquez as a “good guy” and urged the public to wait for the facts to emerge. He said he was confident Vasquez would return.

Vasquez and former officer Antonio Felix were fired and charged in connection with the stop. Investigators allege the people involved were beaten, tased and held at gunpoint; police have said neither officer reported the stop. Both men have pleaded not guilty.

The two former officers are scheduled to return to court next month as the case proceeds.