Four people, Eva Edl, Eva Zastrow, James Zastrow, and Paul Place, are now face the possibility of serving a year in prison in addition to facing thousands of dollars in fines after being convicted in federal court for their involvement in a peaceful protest at a Tennessee abortion facility. Their sentencing is scheduled for July 30, following a one-day bench trial presided over by Middle District of Tennessee Magistrate Judge Chip Frensly.
The group was charged under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, legislation designed to protect the rights of individuals seeking “reproductive health services” from obstruction and threats. However, the defendants and their supporters argue that their actions were an expression of their deeply held religious beliefs and a peaceful exercise of their First Amendment rights.
During the trial, DOJ prosecuting attorney Amanda Klopf argued that the case was fundamentally about the rule of law, stating that the four had engaged in criminal activity rather than protected protest. Lawyer Brian Boynton further emphasized that the defendants were on trial not for their beliefs but for their actions.
The defense painted a different picture, arguing that their clients were merely practicing their faith in a non-violent manner. One of the lawyers representing Paul Place remarked that the trial demonstrated a massive overreach by the federal government, accusing the Biden administration of prosecuting individuals for simply expressing their beliefs peacefully. Another defense attorney highlighted that the group aimed to “pray and sing and worship” outside the Carafem abortion facility in Mt Juliet, Tennessee, in an attempt to persuade women against proceeding with abortions.
The incident that led to the charges took place on March 5, 2021, when the demonstrators gathered in the hallway outside Carafem, engaging in prayer and hymn singing. During the trial, images were presented showing the four sitting in front of the door to Carafem. However, defense attorneys contended that the DOJ failed to prove their clients had effectively blocked entry or significantly disrupted the facility’s operations.
This case has ignited a fiery debate on the balance between the right to protest and ensuring access to healthcare services. Supporters of the defendants gathered outside the courthouse to sing hymns and pray, demonstrating solidarity and commitment to their cause. Among those present was Edl, who reflected on her experiences surviving a Communist concentration camp in Eastern Europe, stating, “Whatever happens, we are in the Lord’s hands.”
As the date for sentencing approaches, this case continues to raise critical questions about the intersection of free speech, religious expression, and “reproductive rights”, highlighting the ongoing tensions in America’s culture wars.
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