Newsom Blocks Extradition of Abortionist, Denying Justice to Louisiana Woman
California Gov. Gavin Newsom blocked the extradition of an abortionist accused of harming a Louisiana woman, drawing criticism for denying justice and undermining state law.
BATON ROUGE, LA — California Gov. Gavin Newsom has refused to extradite abortionist Rémy Coeytaux, accused of illegally mailing abortion pills to a Louisiana woman, leaving the victim without legal recourse. In October 2023, Rosalie Markezich, pressured by her boyfriend, obtained mifepristone from Coeytaux, resulting in the loss of her unborn child and lasting emotional trauma.
Louisiana authorities issued a criminal warrant and sought extradition to hold Coeytaux accountable under state law. Despite this, Newsom stated California would shield the doctor, framing the case as an attack on reproductive rights. “Louisiana’s request is denied,” Newsom said in a statement. “We will not allow extremist politicians from other states to reach into California and try to punish doctors based on allegations that they provided reproductive health care services. Not today. Not ever.” Critics argue his decision prioritizes ideology over the law, undermining Louisiana’s sovereignty and the rights of women harmed by coercion.
Louisiana officials, including Gov. Jeff Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill, vowed to continue pursuing justice and defend their state’s abortion restrictions, warning that out-of-state protections for abortion providers create dangerous loopholes and leave victims like Markezich without recourse.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Texas shut down San Antonio's abortion travel fund.
