Man accused of giving girlfriend medication that ended pregnancy

WATERTOWN, Mass. (Court TV) — A Massachusetts man accused of tricking his then-girlfriend into taking medication that terminated her pregnancy was in court Wednesday.

Robert Kawada, 43, was arrested May 24 and charged with attempted poisoning, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon on a pregnant person, and assault and battery on a household or family member, according to documents obtained by Court TV.

Robert Kawada appears in court Aug. 7, 2024. (Court TV)

Wednesday’s proceedings were expected to be a probable cause hearing, however District Court Judge Jennifer Queally continued the probable cause hearing at the Commonwealth’s request and over the defense’s objections.

Prosecutors said they needed more time to complete the investigation so they could bring it to a grand jury. Kawada’s lawyer, Rosemary Scapicchio, objected in her trademark fiery manner, saying it’s been two months since Kawada’s arraignment and the Commonwealth should not get to use the lower (district) court as a “placeholder” while they secure an indictment.

Scapicchio asked the judge to dismiss the case or reduce Kawada’s $100,000 cash bond “based on the Commonwealth’s failure to be ready.” Judge Queally denied the requests to dismiss the case or modify bond, noting that 45 days should be sufficient time to secure an indictment.

Scapicchio also objected to the continuance on the grounds that the defense was entitled to discovery, and they were hoping to obtain it in Wednesday’s hearing, saying, “the Commonwealth has leveled pretty serious charges against (Kawada) and they don’t even have medical evidence. Frankly, I don’t know how they can make these allegations but here we are.” Scapicchio said the defense had not received any discovery aside from the initial arrest report.

Prosecutors say Kawada and the victim were dating when she became pregnant. Kawada allegedly offered her medication that he said were vitamins and iron pills. One of the pills she was given is Misoprostol, according to prosecutors .

Misoprostol, a medication used to treat stomach ulcers, is also used to end early pregnancy, states MedlinePlus.

Authorities say Kawada asked the victim to send him pictures after her miscarriage. Cell phone data allegedly showed searches for “9-week aborted fetus pics” and “chewing Misoprostol,” reported CBS News .

Kawada pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in May.