The "Pregnancy Advisory Service" pamphlet given to Ellen at the hospital before the abortion stated, "Nor is there any evidence to suggest that women who have had a termination suffer from any long-term psychological affects." Ellen's lawyer says her case could encourage other women who have been emotionally traumatized by abortion to bring lawsuits of their own.
 

California Court Halts Abortionist's Murder Case
The California Supreme Court has halted the murder prosecution of abortionist Bruce Steir, pending a review to determine whether pro-life politics motivated the charge against him. Steir is charged with second-degree murder in the death of Sharon Hamptlon, who bled to death after Steir performed an abortion on her in 1996.

Although prosecutors say Steir showed a "conscious disregard" for Hamptlon's life during the abortion, Steir countered that he is being "singled out" because he performs abortions. He is the first abortionist in California to be charged with murder in more than 25 years.
 

Abortionist Sentenced for Tax Evasion, Fraud
A Texas judge has sentenced an abortionist to a year and a day in federal prison for tax evasion and Medicaid fraud. Abortionist John Alderman pleaded guilty to failing to pay more than $100,000 in taxes to the IRS. He also was charged with filing more than $25,000 in false Medicare claims for abortions that the women had already paid for.

The U.S. Attorney said that Alderman would charge women for abortions, then turn around and file false claims to Medicaid for reimbursement. However, because Medicaid pays for abortions only in cases of rape, incest or to save the life of the mother, Alderman billed Medicaid for other kinds of services.