U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg | U.S. Department of Justice
Gabriella Oropesa from Cooper City, Florida, was found guilty of conspiring to harm employees of pro-life pregnancy centers. Her actions aimed to intimidate those providing reproductive health services. Alongside co-conspirators Caleb Freestone, Amber Stewart-Smith, and Annarella Rivera, who had already pleaded guilty, Oropesa targeted facilities offering alternatives to abortion. The group vandalized these centers with messages such as “If abortions aren’t safe than niether [sic] are you” and “YOUR TIME IS UP!!”
The acts occurred between May 2022 and July 2022 in Florida. The defendants wore masks and dark clothing during the attacks to hide their identities.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the importance of protecting access to reproductive health services: “The Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act is clear: no one should have to face threats and intimidation just for doing their job.” U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg stated that threats against pregnancy resource centers would not be tolerated.
Oropesa's sentencing is set for March 19, 2025. She could face up to 10 years in prison for the conspiracy charge. A federal judge will decide her sentence based on various guidelines and factors.
The FBI Tampa Field Office led the investigation with support from local police departments in Polk County, Winter Haven, Hialeah, and Hollywood. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Courtney Derry and Trial Attorney Laura-Kate Bernstein.
Individuals with information about violence or threats against reproductive health services are encouraged to contact the FBI or visit relevant Justice Department resources online.
