Kermit Gosnell, Philadelphia Abortion Doctor Convicted of Infanticide, Dies at 85
PHILADELPHIA — Dr. Kermit Gosnell, an abortion clinic doctor sentenced to life in prison for the deaths of three babies born alive after abortions, died on March 1, 2026, at a Pennsylvania hospital, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. He was 85 years ancient.
A “House of Horrors”
Gosnell’s clinic in West Philadelphia became notorious as a “house of horrors” following a 2010 investigation. Former employees testified that he performed abortions illegally past Pennsylvania’s 24-week limit and that he and his staff dispatched newborns who were born alive by severing their spinal cords, a practice he referred to as “snipping.”
Criminal Charges and Convictions
Kermit Barron Gosnell was born on February 9, 1941, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was convicted on multiple federal and state charges, including:
- Federal: Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, distribution of controlled substances (10 counts), and maintaining a place for the illegal distribution of controlled substances.
- Pennsylvania: First-degree murder (3 counts), involuntary manslaughter, and 21 counts of violating the 24-hour informed consent law.
He received a life sentence in Pennsylvania and a 30-year federal sentence, to be served concurrently.
Clinic Conditions and Investigation
The investigation that led to Gosnell’s arrest began as a probe into illegal prescription drug trafficking. Investigators discovered unsanitary and dangerous conditions at the clinic, including bags and bottles containing fetal remains, bloodstained furniture, and dirty medical instruments.
Systemic Failures and Aftermath
For 15 years prior to the 2010 raid, the Pennsylvania Department of Health had failed to conduct routine inspections of abortion clinics. Following the scandal, two top state health officials were fired, and Pennsylvania implemented stricter regulations for abortion clinics.
Defense Arguments
During his 2013 trial, Gosnell did not testify. His defense attorney argued that the fetuses were not born alive and that any movements observed were posthumous twitches or spasms.
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