A former federal prosecutor has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice, claiming she was unlawfully dismissed due to political reasons. Sunita Doddamani, who served as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Michigan, alleges her termination was connected to her work prosecuting anti-abortion activists. The lawsuit accuses the Justice Department of violating the Civil Service Reform Act, the Administrative Procedure Act, and the First and Fifth Amendments.
Doddamani was dismissed on April 13 without prior notice or cause, as stated in the lawsuit. The complaint suggests her firing was politically motivated and linked to her role in prosecuting eight individuals under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act). This Act prohibits interference with reproductive health services, including abortion services.
The lawsuit reveals that at least two other prosecutors involved in FACE Act cases were also terminated on the same day. The Justice Department announced the firing of personnel for allegedly “weaponizing” the FACE Act. This came just a day before a report accused the Biden administration of misusing the Act against anti-abortion activists.
The lawsuit implies political influence from the Trump administration, claiming that unlawful terminations were used to meet political objectives. Doddamani asserts she faced financial and reputational harm due to her termination.
The complaint names seven defendants, including Attorney General Todd Blanche. The Justice Department has declined additional comments, referring to a previous statement about terminating those responsible for alleged misuse of the FACE Act.
Doddamani seeks a court declaration of her rights’ violation, reinstatement, back pay, and other relief. The FACE Act, established in the early 1990s, was aimed at countering violence against abortion clinics. While supporters of the law argue it is necessary to protect clinic access, opponents claim it limits free speech rights of anti-abortion activists. During President Trump’s second term, strict enforcement of the Act was limited, with some pardons granted.