In the Kansas Supreme Court yesterday, it was revealed that Kansas Attorney General Phill Kline’s subpoena of 90 patients’ medical records is part of an investigation into possible felonies committed by two clinics. Kline’s chief deputy testified that the records are “indispensable” to an investigation into clinic misconduct, including violating late-term abortion statutes and failing to report child sexual abuse, reports The Kansas City Star. Lee Thompson, representing the clinics, stated, “Both clinics categorically deny having committed any felonies. Today was the first time in this proceeding…that allegation has been made,” according to the Associated Press.
The clinics in question, Women’s Health Care Services in Wichita and Comprehensive Health of Planned Parenthood in Overland Park, are asking the court to block or narrow the subpoenas in the interest of patients’ privacy. Thompson alleged that the state failed to prove a compelling state interest in the records and has sought the most invasive means of finding information, and he also pointed out discrepancies in the state’s stated motive and the information requested, saying “It doesn’t even meet the test of logic,” reports the Star. A decision is not expected until late October.
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