A lawsuit has been filed against the U.S. Department of Justice by Sunita Doddamani, a former assistant U.S. attorney from the Eastern District of Michigan. Doddamani claims her firing was politically motivated, tied to her role in prosecuting anti-abortion activists. This lawsuit adds to several from ex-Justice Department employees who allege political reasons were behind their dismissals.
According to the complaint, Doddamani was terminated on April 13 without notice, due process, or any given cause. The complaint suggests the unstated reason was her prosecution of eight activists under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act), a law prohibiting interference with reproductive health services. Alongside Doddamani, at least two other prosecutors involved in FACE Act cases were dismissed the same day.
The Justice Department had announced the termination of personnel connected to what they called ‘weaponizing’ the FACE Act. This announcement came just before a report accused the Biden administration of misusing the FACE Act against anti-abortion activists.
The lawsuit argues that Doddamani suffered financially and reputationally as a result of her firing. It names seven defendants, including Attorney General Todd Blanche, and seeks Doddamani’s reinstatement, back pay, and other relief. The department declined to comment further, beyond its previous social media statement affirming the termination of employment related to the FACE Act misuse.
The FACE Act, established in the early 1990s, aimed to curtail violence against abortion clinics and providers. While supporters view the law as necessary, critics argue it infringes on free speech rights. During President Trump’s second term, the Justice Department shifted its stance, restricting enforcement of FACE Act violations except for extreme cases. Additionally, Trump pardoned 23 individuals convicted under the act.