Life Legal is representing Craig Walterscheid, a faithful pro-lifer who was arrested and issued a citation for felony vandalism for sidewalk “chalking” outside a California abortion clinic. The practice of using washable chalk on public sidewalks has always been a protected form of speech. But apparently First Amendment protections don’t apply when it comes to pro-life messages.
The pro-lifer used washable spray chalk to write out “Abortion is Murder” and “2363.org” on the public sidewalk outside the abortion mill. 2363.org is a campaign to raise awareness about the number of babies killed daily through abortion.
Life Legal attorneys are working diligently to get these ridiculous charges dismissed. Spray chalk is frequently used in various types of protests, artwork, and even children’s games – yet none of the individuals involved in those activities has faced prosecution and persecution as Mr. Walterscheid has.
Pre-trial in the case is set for February 8, 2023.
Unfortunately, this is yet another example of official discrimination against pro-life speech and activities. Two weeks ago, we reported that several men fired pellet guns at pro-lifers outside a Planned Parenthood mill in Napa, California. A number of individuals were hit by the pellets, including Life Legal CFO Mary Riley, who prays daily at the abortion clinic. Thankfully, no one was injured, but the victims were shaken by the attack. We have demanded an investigation into this hateful assault and even provided law enforcement with video evidence of the pellet gun shootings. However, Napa PD has failed to make this a priority and has not yet filed charges against the shooters. We are evaluating all legal options in this matter.