Weekly Trial Reports

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New York Times

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JURY VERDICT

The jury in NOW v. Scheidler returned its verdict at noon, Monday, April 20, 1998. The six-person jury found in favor of the plaintiffs, listing 21 counts of extortion, which in this trial is defined as taking from a woman her right to use the facilities of an abortion clinic and taking from the clinic its right to provide abortions, no matter how brief that interruption of abortion services might be. The jury also found that there were no threats of murder, bombing or arson on the part of any defendants. In addition to finding the defendants responsible for the predicate acts as specified by RICO, they also found that the two named clinics, Summit and Delaware, were entitled to over $80,000 in damages. Since RICO involves treble damages, the amount is $240,000.

While the finding was disappointing, it was not unexpected. The RICO law itself is seriously flawed, as it should never have been applied to civil disobedience. The defendants were curtailed from presenting essential points of evidence as to their peaceful, nonviolent activities to stop abortion and save babies. The entire case was far too complicated for a jury of laymen to understand, and both the attorneys and the witnesses for the plaintiffs blatantly lied throughout the seven week trial, as well as during pre-trial hearings and in the press.

Judge Coar will meet with attorneys for all parties on Tuesday morning to discuss post-trial motions and other matters relating to the verdit. As we learn more about the ramifications of the ruling, we will update this page. Please await further information on the appeal process. And keep praying for the ultimate victory will be ours and the Lords. We thank you for your many prayers and your support.

Cardinal Criticizes Verdict

Los Angeles Times

Alabama Clinic May Seek Damages