On criminal abortion in America

The essay contends that intentional abortion ought to be treated as a criminal act and criticizes common law and state statutes for failing to recognize fetal life. It surveys the prevalence and causes of induced abortion, identifies perpetrators and complicit parties, describes methods and evidentiary challenges, and analyzes legal deficiencies that hinder conviction. The author discusses ethical objections that silence professionals, outlines public-health and moral consequences, and calls on physicians and legislators to improve forensic practice, legal definitions, and preventive measures to reduce the practice and protect women and unborn children.