Matthew Connolly, Violating Reproductive Health Services, Pennsylvania 2021

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Table of Contents

Defendant Blocks Access to Reproductive Health Clinic in Philadelphia

In a shocking act of violence, Matthew Connolly has been charged with violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, a federal statute that prohibits the use of force, threats of force, or physical obstruction against anyone seeking or providing reproductive health services. The shocking incident took place on August 27, 2021, at a reproductive health clinic in Philadelphia, where Connolly intentionally created a physical obstruction.

According to the complaint, Connolly barricaded himself inside one of the clinic’s bathrooms, forcing the clinic to shut down for the day and requiring the intervention of local police. The incident resulted in at least 44 appointments being re-scheduled, causing significant disruptions to the patients and staff.

The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has taken swift action to enforce the FACE Act and ensure that providers can continue to deliver legal reproductive health services. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the importance of upholding the law and protecting access to reproductive healthcare.

“The defendant engaged in conduct calculated to shut down a reproductive health clinic for an entire day, forcing the evacuation of the clinic’s patients and obstructing access to reproductive health services. The FACE Act prohibits conduct intended to interfere with access to reproductive healthcare,” said Clarke.

The lawsuit seeks monetary penalties and injunctive relief as provided by the FACE Act. The Justice Department is committed to enforcing the law and ensuring that providers can continue to deliver essential services to patients.

The FACE Act is a critical law that protects reproductive health clinics and their patients from violence and intimidation. The Justice Department’s actions demonstrate its commitment to upholding the law and protecting the rights of individuals seeking reproductive healthcare.

For more information on the Civil Rights Division and the FACE Act, visit www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section and www.justice.gov/crt/freedom-access-clinic-entrances-places-religious-worship.