Sarah Kankiewicz Barred from Practicing as a Midwife for 20 Years
Sarah Kankiewicz, a former Arizona midwife, made headlines after surrendering her license in June following the tragic deaths of one of her clients and a newborn baby. The Arizona Department of Health Services reached an agreement with Kankiewicz, preventing her from practicing as a midwife for 15 years. However, after a lawsuit by the state, a judge ruled that she is now barred from working as a midwife for 20 years.
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office filed a complaint against Kankiewicz, alleging that she continued to practice midwifery in violation of the settlement agreement. Assistant Attorney General Patricia LaMagna presented evidence in court that Kankiewicz was still providing midwifery services, despite the terms of the agreement.
In a hearing on Friday, the judge decided to issue a permanent injunction against Kankiewicz practicing midwifery for 20 years, citing the need for regulatory oversight and public safety. This decision was met with mixed reactions, with some feeling that the punishment was too lenient considering the lives lost under Kankiewicz’s care.
Parker Terry, who lost his wife and son during a homebirth attended by Kankiewicz, expressed disappointment in the ruling and called for criminal charges to be brought against the former midwife. He emphasized the need for justice and accountability in such cases to prevent further harm.
Kankiewicz’s attorney stated that she plans to support pregnant women in alternative ways that do not involve midwifery, emphasizing her commitment to women’s health and well-being.
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