Abortion-related violence peaked in 1993 and 1994, when five people were murdered, nine attempts were made on people's lives, and 137 people received death threats. Emily Lyons, a nurse at the clinic, lost an eye and suffered broken bones and other injuries and Robert Sanderson, an off-duty police officer, was killed when a bomb exploded at the clinic. I just want everyone to see the results of this senseless act. The search for Eric Rudolph, the suspected bomber, is still underway.
Abortion related clinic violence and conflict occur across the United States.
According to the National Abortion Federation there are 12 areas in the country that are at risk for increased abortion-related violence, including Alabama. FACE prohibits the use of force, threats of force, physical obstruction or property damage intended to intimidate, interfere with, or injure those obtaining or providing reproductive health services, including termination of pregnancy. Violations of the law can result in federal penalties and civil actions. The law does not apply to peaceful praying, picketing, or communication by anti-choice demonstrators, so long as these activities do not obstruct physical access to clinics. Several organizations offer clinic defense and field support programs, including the National Abortion Federation, the Feminist Majority Foundation, and Planned Parenthood Federation of America.