North Texas Man Charged With Capital Murder Over Forced Abortion

Justin Anthony Banta, a 38-year-old North Texas man and IT employee at the U.S. Department of Justice, was arrested and charged with capital murder and tampering with evidence after allegedly secretly administering an abortion-inducing drug to his pregnant girlfriend, resulting in the death of her six-week-old fetus. The investigation began after the woman, who became pregnant in September 2024, reported that Banta had purchased "Plan C" pills online and slipped them into her drink during a meeting at a coffee shop despite her desire to keep the baby. Following ingestion, the woman experienced severe symptoms and ultimately lost the fetus, confirmed by hospital ultrasound. Authorities believe Banta remotely factory reset his cell phone to destroy evidence, leading to the tampering charge. He was released on bond after arrest, with the case actively pursued by local authorities, the Texas Rangers, and the FBI. The Parker County Sheriff's Office continues its investigation, emphasizing the gravity of the charges and ongoing efforts to thoroughly examine all facts.