Federal judge finds man guilty of obstructing the freedom of access to a clinic entrance

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– A federal judge has found a man guilty of violating the Freedom of Access to a Clinic Entrances (FACE Act) following a bench trial, said the Justice Department.

Steven Clark Lefemine, of West Columbia is accused of sitting in front of the entrance to Planned Parenthood South Atlantic (PPSA) in Columbia and blocking access to the facility on Nov. 15, 2022.

Investigators said PPSA staff members caught the incident on video and recorded audio.

During the trial Lefemine admitted to blocking the doors to the clinic to prevent the clinic from performing abortions.

“We will protect South Carolinians’ right to peacefully protest, but we will also protect their right to access healthcare facilities,” said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina.

Lefemine faces a maximum penalty of six months in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $10,000, and one year of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment.

A judge will sentence Lefemine after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.

This is the first FACE Act conviction in South Carolina.