California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced the felony conviction of David Robert Daleiden and Sandra Merritt for criminal invasion of privacy. The conviction stems from their unlawful recording of confidential communications with women's healthcare providers. This follows a 2017 arrest warrant issued by the California Department of Justice against both individuals.
The defendants pleaded no contest to one felony count under California Penal Code Section 632(a), which pertains to the unlawful recording of confidential communication. "While the Trump Administration is issuing pardons to individuals convicted of harming reproductive health clinics and providers, my office is securing criminal convictions to ensure that Californians can exercise their constitutional rights to reproductive healthcare," stated Attorney General Bonta. He further emphasized, "We will not hesitate to continue taking action against those who threaten access to abortion care — whether by recording confidential conversations or other means."
As part of their plea agreement, Daleiden and Merritt are required to have no contact with the victims in any form, including public interactions, social media, or at work locations. Additionally, they must comply with all laws, particularly avoiding further recordings that violate Penal Code Section 632.