A Texas midwife, Maria Margarita Rojas, has been arrested and charged with performing illegal abortions and practicing medicine without a license. The arrest was announced by state Attorney General Ken Paxton on March 18, 2025, following an investigation that revealed Rojas allegedly operated three health clinics in Houston where she performed banned abortions.
- Midwife arrested for illegal abortions in Texas
- Ken Paxton announces arrest after investigation
- Maria Margarita Rojas operated three clinics
- Charges include second-degree felony abortion
- Rojas released on $10,000 bond initially
- Texas law bans most abortions since 2022
The case against Rojas is significant as it represents the first criminal prosecution of a healthcare provider for performing an abortion since Texas implemented its strict ban after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Under Texas law, exceptions to this ban are limited to situations where a physician determines that terminating a pregnancy is necessary to save the life of the pregnant person or prevent substantial impairment of major bodily functions.
Rojas, aged 49, is accused of running three clinics in northwest Houston where she allegedly conducted illegal abortions and employed unlicensed individuals posing as medical professionals. The charges include performing an abortion—a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison—and violating medical licensing laws, which carry third-degree felony penalties.
- Charge: Performing illegal abortions
- Charge: Practicing medicine without appropriate licensing
- Punishment: Up to 20 years imprisonment and fines up to $10,000 for abortion-related charge
The investigation began after Waller County District Attorney Sean Whittmore referred the case to Paxton’s office. Following her initial arrest on March 5 for conspiracy related to practicing medicine unlawfully, Rojas was re-arrested on March 18 under new charges connected with her alleged abortion practices post-arrest. She was released on a $10,000 bond after her first arrest.
This case highlights ongoing legal battles surrounding reproductive rights in Texas and reflects broader national debates over access to abortion services following recent changes at the federal level. As enforcement actions continue under strict state laws, further developments may arise regarding both legal challenges and public response.
