Particle.news

Download on the App Store

DOJ IT Worker Arrested on Capital Murder Charge Over Alleged Forced Abortion

Authorities allege he covertly administered an abortion-inducing pill that led to his girlfriend’s miscarriage, prompting capital murder and evidence-tampering charges.

Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Justin Anthony Banta, 38, a DOJ network administration section chief, was taken into custody on June 6 and faces capital murder and evidence tampering counts.
  • Prosecutors say he slipped abortion-inducing pills into his six-weeks-pregnant girlfriend’s drink at a Tarrant County coffee shop, and she miscarried two days later.
  • After turning over his phone to investigators, Banta is accused of remotely wiping it, leading to forensic orders and specialist reviews.
  • He posted $500,000 bond for the murder charge and $20,000 for the tampering count, securing release on a combined $520,000 bond.
  • His attorney disputes the claims as fallout from a troubled relationship while the Texas Rangers, FBI, Benbrook Police and other agencies continue their probe.