Operation Rescue calls on FL Medical Board to convert the suspension into a permanent revocation
Talahassee, FL — Late-term abortionist James Pendergraft has lost his appeal of the suspension of his medical license for committing illegal third-trimester abortions. The suspension issued by the Florida Medical Board remains valid and in effect.
In an opinion filed yesterday, the Florida District Court of Appeals rejected all of Pendergraft’s arguments and stated that they “found no reversible error” in the Board’s suspension order.
The opinion further stated:
• “Dr. Pendergraft violated sections 456.072(1)(k) and 458.331(1)(g) when he performed a third trimester abortion in his clinic, which is not a hospital.”…
• “violated section 390.0111(1)(a)… which prohibits third trimester abortions unless two physicians certify in writing to the fact that, to a reasonable degree of medical probability, the termination of the pregnancy is necessary to save the life or preserve the health of the pregnant woman.”
• [violated]”section 390.0111(1)(b)… because he did not certify in writing “to the medical necessity for legitimate emergency medical procedures for termination of pregnancy in the third trimester, and another physician is not available for
consultation.”
• “the [Administrative Law Judge] found that there was clear and convincing evidence that Dr. Pendergraft committed medical malpractice.”
Pendergraft has a long history of violations and problems with the law. In 2006, Pendergraft’s license was suspended for similar infractions. In 2001, Pendergraft was convicted of extortion and served seven months of a 46 month prison sentence before his conviction was overturned on appeal.
“Like so many abortionists, Pendergraft continues to act as if he is above the law. That makes him a danger to the public,” said Operation Rescue President Troy Newman. “We call on the Florida Medical Board to convert the suspension into a permanent revocation, and continue to pray that Pendergraft’s five Florida abortion mills will permanently close.”
Read the opinion issued by the Court of Appeals.
[Special thanks to Jillstanek.com for breaking this story.]
