Ms. Bell, known as the “matriarch of pro-life activism,” was sentenced to 27 months in prison for her involvement in blocking access to an abortion clinic. She was described as an iconic figure for pro-life activists by the Justice Department. D.C. Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly also ordered her to complete 100 hours of community service.
During sentencing, Ms. Bell stated that she would not comply with reporting her community service or probation as she believed it would be an admission of wrongdoing, which she could not make in good conscience. The judge warned her that refusal to comply could result in returning to prison and losing credit for time served.
Another individual involved, Lauren Handy, received the highest sentence of 57 months. Jonathan Darnel, a military veteran, was sentenced to 34 months for his role in organizing the event. The sentences were lower than what the Department of Justice had requested for each defendant.
Two defendants have not yet been sentenced, while one has pled guilty and received a 10-month sentence. Each sentenced defendant also received an additional 12 months for violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The judge mentioned that these 12 months could be served concurrently with the longer sentences related to conspiracy against civil rights.
Some of the defendants have filed notices of appeal, including Ms. Handy. The Thomas More Society, representing Ms. Handy, plans to appeal her conviction and challenge the constitutionality of the FACE Act.
The Justice Department emphasized in a press release that they will not tolerate the obstruction of civil rights, as stated by FBI’s assistant director in charge, David Sundberg.
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