On March 17, 2025, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the arrest of Maria Margarita Rojas, a 48-year-old midwife known as “Dr. Maria,” for providing illegal abortions in Northwest Houston. Rojas was taken into custody in Waller County and faces charges including the illegal performance of an abortion and practicing medicine without a license.
- Maria Margarita Rojas arrested for illegal abortions
- Rojas operated multiple unlicensed clinics
- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's statement
- Temporary restraining order filed against clinics
- Civil penalties of $100,000 per violation
- Abortion providers held criminally responsible
Paxton emphasized the state’s commitment to pro-life laws and stated that those violating these laws would be held accountable. An investigation revealed that Rojas operated multiple clinics where unlicensed individuals provided medical treatment, directly contravening Texas law.
The case against Maria Margarita Rojas stems from a thorough investigation by Attorney General Paxton’s Law Enforcement Division. It was discovered that she owned clinics named Clinica Waller Latinoamericana in Waller, Clinica Latinoamericana Telge in Cypress, and Latinoamericana Medical Clinic in Spring. These establishments employed unlicensed personnel who misrepresented their qualifications to provide medical care.
Key details include:
- Rojas performed illegal abortion procedures contrary to the Texas Human Life Protection Act.
- The Attorney General’s office has sought a temporary restraining order to close her clinics permanently.
- Civil penalties of at least $100,000 per violation may be imposed under Texas law for unlawful abortions.
The Waller County District Attorney Sean Whittmore referred this case for prosecution, reinforcing that Texas law holds abortion providers criminally liable rather than patients. The actions taken reflect ongoing efforts to enforce state laws regarding reproductive health services strictly.
This arrest highlights ongoing legal challenges surrounding abortion services in Texas as authorities continue to pursue individuals allegedly violating state regulations aimed at protecting unborn lives and women’s health.
