A Texas midwife, Maria Margarita Rojas, was arrested for allegedly performing abortions in violation of the state’s near-total abortion ban. The arrest was announced by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on March 18, 2025.
- Texas midwife arrested for illegal abortions
- Charges include practicing medicine without a license
- First criminal arrest under Texas abortion ban
- Attorney General emphasizes protection of unborn
- Midwives historically targeted by anti-abortion activism
- Rojas's colleague defends her character and work
Rojas faces charges of illegal performance of an abortion and practicing medicine without a license. If convicted, she could face decades in prison as the illegal performance of an abortion is classified as a second-degree felony under Texas law.
The arrest marks a significant moment as it is believed to be the first criminal case under Texas’s stringent abortion restrictions enacted after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Attorney General Paxton emphasized his commitment to enforcing pro-life laws and prosecuting unlicensed individuals who perform illegal abortions.
Rojas operated three clinics in the Houston area and has been accused of employing unlicensed staff who misrepresented themselves as qualified medical professionals. This situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding reproductive rights in Texas, where anti-abortion advocates have increasingly sought legal action against providers since the state enacted its restrictive laws.
- Rojas is 48 years old and has worked closely with low-income Spanish-speaking communities.
- If found guilty, she may face severe penalties due to her charges being classified as felonies.
- This case follows previous legal actions against other abortion providers in Texas.
Despite these allegations, some colleagues have expressed disbelief regarding Rojas’s involvement in such activities. Holly Shearman, a fellow midwife who has known Rojas for eight years, stated that she cannot imagine Rojas engaging in illegal practices given her dedication to her community and faith.
The arrest of Maria Margarita Rojas underscores ongoing debates over reproductive rights in Texas and reflects broader national discussions following changes to federal protections for abortion access. As this case develops, it will likely continue to draw attention from both supporters and opponents of current abortion legislation.
