The Justice Department has initiated a federal lawsuit in the Northern District of Ohio against two organizations and seven individuals, alleging violations of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The defendants are Citizens for a Pro Life Society and Red Rose Rescue, along with Laura Gies, Lauren Handy, Clara McDonald, Monica Miller, Christopher Moscinski, Jay Smith and Audrey Whipple.
The FACE Act forbids the use of force, threats of force or physical obstruction against anyone seeking or providing reproductive health services. The complaint alleges that on June 4 and 5, 2021, the defendants physically obstructed two Ohio reproductive health facilities to prevent them from offering services and patients from receiving them. The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages, monetary penalties and injunctive relief as stipulated by the FACE Act.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division stated: “Obstructing people from accessing reproductive health care and physically obstructing providers from offering it are unlawful.” She further noted that Congress passed the FACE Act 30 years ago in response to acts of violence and physical obstruction at reproductive health clinics. She affirmed the Civil Rights Division's commitment to enforcing federal law to protect those who seek and provide access to reproductive health services.
U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio added: “Federal and state laws protect access to reproductive health care services.” She emphasized that individuals have the right to access facilities in Ohio free from force or intimidation. Lutzko also expressed her office's dedication to enforcing the FACE Act to safeguard these rights.
The case is being managed by the Civil Rights Division's Special Litigation Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio.
Potential violations can be reported online at civilrights.justice.gov or via local FBI field offices. For immediate danger situations, contact local police or call 911.