Despite public outcry, the D.C. Medical Examiner’s Office, reportedly at the request of the Department of Justice, declined to perform autopsies and was allegedly ordered to dispose of the bodies. No federal investigation has been announced.
Partial-Birth Abortion Concerns
Pro-life leaders argue that the physical condition of the DC Five—lacerations, torn limbs, and crushed skulls—matches the illegal abortion procedure known as partial-birth abortion. This method, banned under federal law, involves partially delivering a fetus before ending its life by crushing the skull or suctioning the brain.
“The leaders at the press conference demanded action from the federal government to determine whether the babies, often referred to as the ‘D.C. Five,’ were killed in this manner,” according to reports.
Since 2003, partial-birth abortion has been federally prohibited. The Metropolitan Police Department claimed the abortions were legal. Advocates who cite visual evidence suggest the remains indicate partial-birth abortion was used.
Dr. Cesare Santangelo and the Washington Surgi-Clinic
Dr. Santangelo, who runs the clinic at the center of the controversy, denies performing partial-birth abortions. However, Handy reportedly became a pro-life activist after watching undercover footage in which Santangelo stated he would not assist a baby born alive during an abortion.
