Abortion Rights Groups Want Attacks Prosecuted As Terrorism

· Dec. 3, 2015, 3:52 pm
Photo: Planned Parenthood CO Springs scene (AP Photo)AP
Police investigate at a Planned Parenthood clinic and area around the building north of a strip mall early Saturday, Nov. 28, 2015, in northwest Colorado Springs, Colo.

One hundred and forty groups sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch last Wednesday, two days before the shooting at a Planned Parenthood in Colorado Springs.

Investigators have not presented any motive for Friday's clinic shooting. But Ilyse Hogue, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, thinks the terrorism label fits. 

"This is not a random shooting like we see unfortunately all the time all over  the country," Hogue said. "This was politically motivated and it must be called out as such."

Advocates say labeling the attack terrorism would help steer resources to the investigation. But Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers doesn't expect domestic terrorism charges against accused shooter Robert Dear. 

"I would be very surprised if this is not simply a local prosecution," Suthers said. "Murder charges will be more than adequate on the local level."

The Justice Department says it's still considering whether to bring other federal charges against Dear.

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