Introduction to the Case
Waller County has witnessed a significant development in the historic case of Maria Rojas, a midwife indicted on illegal abortion charges. For the first time since Rojas’ arrest, one of her workers, Yhonder Lebrun Acosta, faced a Waller County Judge. This marks a crucial step in the proceedings, with Acosta being one of eight people indicted last month in connection to the case.
Background on the Charges
Rojas was arrested in March, accused by the Texas Attorney General’s Office of running a network of medical clinics and performing illegal abortions. Acosta, 37, who prosecutors say worked under Rojas, was charged with practicing medicine without a license at one of Rojas’ clinics in Waller County between February 2023 and March 2025.
Court Proceedings
During the virtual court hearing, Acosta requested a Spanish interpreter and informed the judge of his intention to hire his own attorney. The judge subsequently postponed his case until November 5 at 1:30 p.m. According to jail records, Acosta has since posted bond. This development is significant as it sets the stage for the upcoming trial, where the fate of Acosta and potentially the other indicted individuals will be decided.
Reactions from Attorneys
KPRC 2 reached out to attorneys on record for all eight workers and received responses from two of them. Attorney Javier Martinez, representing Sabiel Bosch, stated, “Mr. Bosch is innocent of the charges. We expect that the case against him will be shown to be factually and legally insufficient. If the case doesn’t get dismissed, we will prevail at trial.” Attorney Luis Martinez, representing Gerardo Aguero, said, “I cannot discuss my client Gerardo Aguero until I learn more about the facts of his case, and right now I know only what is in the public record.”
Official Statements
Earlier this month, Texas AG Ken Paxton announced the new indictments, stating, “This cabal of abortion-loving radicals has been running illegal clinics staffed with unlicensed individuals who endangered the very people they pretended to help.” In contrast, the Center for Reproductive Rights called the indictments a ‘scare campaign.’ Senior counsel Jenna Hudson provided a statement saying, “This is an escalation of Texas’ scare campaign against doctors and healthcare workers. The case against Maria Rojas is a sham. Without any proof, Paxton went after Rojas, a licensed midwife dedicated to helping her pregnant patients.”
Conclusion
The case of Maria Rojas and her workers has sparked intense debate and discussion about abortion laws and healthcare access in Texas. As the legal proceedings continue, it remains to be seen how the indictments will impact the defendants and the broader community. The statements from attorneys and advocacy groups highlight the complexity and sensitivity of the issue, with both sides presenting strong arguments. Ultimately, the outcome of this case will have significant implications for the future of reproductive healthcare in the state.
