Originally published at National Catholic Register
More than a dozen pro-life activists are still in prison or awaiting sentences on federal charges brought by President Joe Biden’s Department of Justice (DOJ) for protests at abortion clinics — but President-elect Donald Trump has signaled he will likely grant them presidential pardons.
Under the current administration, the DOJ increased its prosecution of pro-life activists under the 1994 Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The legislation was designed to increase penalties for people who obstruct access to abortion clinics or pregnancy resource centers.
During Biden’s tenure as president, the DOJ has brought FACE Act charges against more than 30 people who took part in pro-life protests at abortion clinics. Most of the charges were linked to four demonstrations: in Nashville, Tennessee; Mount Juliet, Tennessee; Washington, D.C.; and Sterling Heights, Michigan.
Some protesters were spared prison sentences, but several have been sentenced to at least two years in federal prison, with the longest being four years and nine months. Several of those who are imprisoned are senior citizens, and many are Catholic.
Trump promises to review cases of pro-lifers
On at least two occasions, Trump has signaled his intent to pardon pro-life activists who are incarcerated for protests
