DOJ Employee Accused of Killing Unborn Baby by Secretly Spiking Girlfriend’s Coffee with Abortion Pills
A U.S. Department of Justice IT worker is facing capital murder charges in Texas after allegedly sneaking abortion pills into his pregnant girlfriend’s coffee, leading to the loss of her pregnancy.
Shocking Case of Betrayal
Authorities say 38-year-old Justin Anthony Banta, who works in the DOJ’s IT department, secretly dosed his girlfriend’s drink with “Plan C” abortion pills without her knowledge. The disturbing incident happened in Parker County, Texas, and has sparked outrage both locally and online.
The couple had discovered the pregnancy in September 2024, but Banta reportedly tried to convince the woman to end it using pills he claimed he could buy online. She refused, choosing to keep the baby.
On October 17, a routine sonogram confirmed that the pregnancy was progressing well the fetus had a healthy heartbeat and stable vitals.
Later that day, Banta met his girlfriend at a local coffee shop. She later told police that she suspected her drink had been tampered with, and the next day, she was rushed to the emergency room after experiencing severe bleeding. Tragically, she lost the pregnancy.
Evidence Tampering Adds to Charges
After the woman reported the incident to authorities, Banta was interviewed by the Parker County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO). Deputies collected his phone as part of the investigation but claim the DOJ employee used his technical skills to remotely reset the device, potentially erasing key evidence.
As a result, Banta is also facing a tampering with physical evidence charge. Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers have filed a capital murder charge against him in Tarrant County, making this a rare and serious criminal case.
Capital Murder Charge in Texas
Capital murder is considered the most serious charge under Texas law and is the only one eligible for the death penalty. While Banta’s exact punishment is yet to be determined, the nature of the charges suggests the case will be heavily prosecuted.
Authorities have not commented on his employment status with the DOJ at this time.
