Texas AG Announces Arrest of "Dr. Maria" Alleged to have Performed Illegal Abortions and Operating a Network of Unlicensed Clinics in Houston Area

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the arrest of Maria Margarita Rojas, a 48-year-old midwife known as "Dr. Maria," for allegedly providing illegal abortions and operating a network of unlicensed clinics in the Houston area. She was charged with performing illegal abortions, a second-degree felony, and practicing medicine without a license. This is the first arrest of an abortion provider under Texas' 2022 abortion ban, the Human Life Protection Act. Paxton's office also sought a temporary restraining order to shut down her clinics, which operated under names like Clinica Waller Latinoamericana, Clinica Latinoamericana Telge, and Latinoamericana Medical Clinic.

Ms Rojas faces second-degree felony charges, which carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine if convicted. Under the Texas Human Life Protection Act - a 2021 law that bans abortion in most cases - state authorities can also fine Ms Rojas at least $100,000 "per violation". In a news release announcing the arrest, Attorney General Paxton said that "Texas law protecting life is clear, and we will hold those who violate it accountable".