House Republicans are expressing concern over the alleged mistreatment and lack of necessary medical care for two elderly pro-life activists who are currently jailed in Washington, D.C., and Alexandria, Virginia.
Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), co-chairs of the House Pro-Life Caucus, have written a letter to the U.S. Marshals Service and the Federal Bureau of Prisons addressing reports of mistreatment of Jean Marshall, 74, and Heather Idoni, 59. The women were found guilty of violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act during a protest at an abortion clinic in 2020. Marshall has been sentenced to additional prison time, while Idoni is awaiting sentencing next week.
The lawmakers have requested a detailed account of the medical care provided to the activists while in custody, citing the requirement for appropriate medical care for all prisoners. They have also asked for information on actions taken to ensure that Marshall and Idoni receive appropriate care.
Reports from LifeSite News highlight Idoni’s allegations of inadequate medical care for her heart condition and diabetes while in custody. She claims she has not received her prescribed medication and has suffered a stroke. Idoni also reported issues with receiving her specific diabetes medication at the D.C. Jail.
Marshall has reported pain in her hip, difficulty walking, and deteriorating health while in custody. She claims she was denied hip surgery and is experiencing numbness in her leg.
House Republicans have requested to speak with the directors of the U.S. Marshals Service and the Federal Bureau of Prisons to address the situations of Marshall and Idoni. The letter was signed by several lawmakers and requests a response by May 17, 2024.
The U.S. Marshals Service did not respond to requests for comment, while a spokesperson for the Federal Bureau of Prisons stated that the individuals in question are not under their custody. Further inquiries were directed to the U.S. Marshals Service.
