In a significant development for pro-life advocates, a Maryland jury has found 28-year-old Patrick Brice guilty of multiple charges stemming from a brutal attack on two elderly pro-life activists outside a Planned Parenthood clinic in Baltimore. This incident, which occurred on May 26, 2023, has drawn national attention, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding the abortion debate in the United States.
The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) reported that Brice was convicted on two counts of second-degree assault and two counts of reckless endangerment. The jury’s decision comes as a relief to the victims, Mark Crosby and Dick Schaefer, who suffered severe injuries during the assault. Brice faces a substantial sentence, with sentencing scheduled for March 20, where he could potentially receive up to 20 years in prison for his actions.
Court documents from the Baltimore City Circuit Court indicate that while the jury reached a verdict on several charges, they were unable to decide on a first-degree assault charge against Brice. This ambiguity leaves some questions unanswered regarding the full extent of the incident and its implications.
The ACLJ has been actively involved in representing Crosby and Schaefer throughout this ordeal. The organization emphasized the importance of justice for those who stand up for their beliefs, especially in a climate where pro-life advocates have faced increased hostility. The ACLJ first reported the arrest of a suspect in July 2024, more than a year after the attack, but initially withheld the suspect’s identity.
Video footage released by the Baltimore Police Department captured the shocking moments of the attack, showing Brice aggressively confronting Schaefer before physically assaulting him. This prompted Crosby to intervene, resulting in him being tackled, punched, and kicked. Images shared by Baltimore County Right to Life revealed the extent of Crosby’s injuries, including a severely swollen eye and facial fractures that will require surgical repair.
The assault occurred in a charged atmosphere following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned the longstanding Roe v. Wade ruling. This landmark decision has intensified debates around abortion rights, leading to increased protests and, unfortunately, violence against pro-life advocates. In the wake of the ruling, numerous churches and pro-life centers have reported acts of vandalism and arson, reflecting the heightened tensions on both sides of the issue.
Crosby and Schaefer are not isolated cases; other pro-life activists have also faced violence in recent months. For instance, 18-year-old Grace Hartsock was assaulted while campaigning for a pro-life measure in Kansas, illustrating the growing risks that individuals advocating for life face in a polarized environment.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case serves as a crucial reminder of the challenges that pro-life advocates encounter. The ACLJ and other organizations are committed to supporting those who stand for their beliefs, ensuring that justice prevails in the face of adversity. For more updates on the ongoing legal battles and the pro-life movement, stay connected with trusted sources like the ACLJ and other Christian news outlets.
This case not only highlights the need for legal accountability but also underscores the importance of fostering respectful dialogue around sensitive issues like abortion. As the pro-life movement continues to advocate for the rights of the unborn, it is essential to remain vigilant against violence and hostility, promoting a culture of life that respects all individuals, regardless of their beliefs.