Federal Convictions of Pro-Lifers Blocking Clinics Are Rising

February 5, 2024

Last week 6 pro-life activists were convicted of federal crimes for a 2021 demonstration outside a Nashville abortion clinic.

According to Christianity Today, the growing number of federal prosecutions and convictions of pro-life activists is fueling a renewed debate over the charge that’s being used to prosecute them. Following the overturn of Roe v. Wade in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court decision, federal prosecutors have stepped up their efforts to go after activists who obstruct clinic entrances.

More than a dozen protestors have been convicted of federal crimes after being prosecuted for violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.

Many of those convicted face sentences of up to 10 years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine. Christianity Today reports at least 8 other defendants are awaiting trial later this year in Michigan.

The 6 activists convicted in Tennessee this past week included Calvin Zastrow who faces an 11 year prison sentence. Zastrow stated:

“This ‘conspiracy to violate civil rights’ [charge]—it’s a new strategy the DOJ is using,” 

These types of criminal prosecutions were relatively rare prior to 2021 with only 1 or 2 cases per year for the past decade. Even when protestors are peaceful, they can be charged with conspiracy to “injure, intimidate or interfere” with anyone at a place “providing reproductive health services.”

Jonathan Darnel who was convicted of violating the FACE Act in Washington D.C. stated:

“FACE was designed to break up pro-life civil disobedience. And it succeeded in doing that.”

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