Attorneys Slam State’s “Speculative” Case Against Houston Midwife Maria Rojas

During a court hearing on Thursday, attorneys representing Maria Rojas, a midwife from the Houston area facing allegations of conducting illegal abortions, expressed their criticism of the state's investigation, characterizing the case as speculative and devoid of direct evidence. Rojas, arrested earlier this week in what the Texas Attorney General's office described as the first enforcement action under the state's abortion laws, has been released on bond with a tracking device.

In court, Rojas' legal team presented a significantly different narrative than what was outlined in the court filings. It was stated that Rojas ran a legitimate telemedicine practice focused on maternal care, adhering to the responsibilities of a midwife, and it was contended that there is no direct evidence of her engaging in any unlawful procedures.

Marc Hearron of the Center for Reproductive Rights criticized the state's case as "rank speculation" and "wild conclusions" based on a flawed investigation. Rojas' legal team expressed concerns regarding procedural irregularities, including her arrest based on a warrant instead of a formal criminal complaint. An indictment has not been filed as of now.

Judge Gary Chaney, who will preside over any upcoming criminal trial, indicated that the case could take years to conclude, although he approached the timeline with a sense of humor in court. In the meantime, he issued a temporary injunction to the state to ensure that Rojas’ clinics remain closed as the case moves forward.

Defense attorney Nicole DeBorde Hochglaube raised concerns about the robustness of the state’s case: “If the attorney general had a solid case, they would have filed charges.” They have not done so yet.

Rojas posted bond on Wednesday but remained in custody until Thursday for reasons that remain unclear, according to her lawyers. The subsequent actions in the case hinge on the decision of a grand jury regarding an indictment.

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