News Summary
A Texas father has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against a California doctor for sending abortion pills to his girlfriend, challenging the legality of interstate abortion pill distribution. The lawsuit implicates others in the process and raises questions about the responsibilities of medical providers in abortion cases post-Dobbs. The father seeks significant damages, alleging felony murder against the doctor for facilitating the terminations. This case may set a precedent in the ongoing debates about abortion laws and rights across state lines.
Houston, Texas – A Texas father has filed a significant wrongful death lawsuit in federal court against a California doctor over the use of abortion pills by his girlfriend to terminate two pregnancies. The lawsuit, filed on July 20, 2025, seeks to challenge the legality of abortion pill distribution across state lines and highlights the ongoing complexities in abortion law following the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.
The father, Jerry Rodriguez, is suing Dr. Remy Coeytaux, who allegedly mailed prescription abortion pills to his girlfriend, Kendal Garza, without following legal protocols. Rodriguez’s lawsuit alleges that Coeytaux violated the Comstock Act, which prohibits mailing items that are intended to be used for abortion. This claim asserts that Coeytaux knowingly provided the abortion drugs for the purpose of terminating pregnancies.
Rodriguez’s case also implicates Garza’s estranged husband, Adam Garza, and her mother for their involvement in procuring the abortion pills. The lawsuit claims that payments of $150 for the pills were sent via Venmo, suggesting a clear connection to Coeytaux. Rodriguez has also filed for an injunction aimed at stopping Coeytaux from distributing any further abortion-inducing drugs.
Under current Texas law, abortion is only allowed in cases of medical emergencies, and women who undergo abortions cannot be prosecuted. However, individuals who assist in obtaining such services, including medical providers, face legal risks. Legal experts indicate that Rodriguez’s lawsuit could serve as a pivotal test case for abortion providers operating in blue states under laws designed to protect them from legal actions originating from pro-life states.
Rodriguez’s legal representation, led by pro-life attorney Jonathan Mitchell, is known for his prior influence over Texas’s abortion legislation, including the Heartbeat Bill (SB 8). The lawsuit highlights claims of felony murder against Coeytaux for knowingly causing the deaths of the unborn children. Rodriguez is also seeking at least $75,000 in damages.
The timeline of events indicates that Rodriguez began dating Garza in June 2024, shortly before she became pregnant. Initially, Garza expressed a desire to carry the pregnancy to term. However, it was reported that her estranged husband pressured her to end the pregnancies. Following the administration of the abortion pills at two separate residences, Garza reportedly sent a message to Rodriguez concerning the need to cut the infant’s umbilical cord and bury it, raising concerns about the emotional and psychological impact of her decision.
Rodriguez’s lawsuit comes at a time when Garza is reportedly pregnant again, leading him to voice fears that she may be coerced into terminating the new pregnancy as well. The complexities of this case illustrate the shifting landscape of abortion rights and the potential ramifications for fathers seeking legal avenues in abortion-related matters.
This lawsuit, set against the backdrop of post-Dobbs abortion litigation, emphasizes ongoing debates regarding interstate abortion access and the legal frameworks that govern both abortion services and reproductive rights. As legal experts analyze this case, it may emerge as a model for future litigation targeting abortion providers in states with strict regulations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Man Sues California Physician Over Abortion Pills
New York Clerk Defies Texas Abortion Pill Ruling
Additional Resources
- Christian Post
- Wikipedia: Abortion in the United States
- Fox News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Abortion
- Washington Post
- Google Search: Texas abortion lawsuit
- USA Herald
- Google Scholar: Abortion lawsuits
- Statesman
- Google News: Abortion case Texas
- Fortune
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
