MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas – A woman lost her unborn baby after authorities say the father secretly gave her an abortion medication without her consent, Montgomery County investigators said.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office arrested 25-year-old Jon Rueben Demeter of Spring. He is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon causing serious bodily injury, family violence, and is being held without bond. Authorities say additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
The investigation began Feb. 21 when deputies were called to a hospital in The Woodlands after the mother reported she believed Demeter had given her abortion medication without her permission.
Court records reviewed by KPRC 2 say the woman miscarried and that her daughter, Presley Mae, was stillborn. Investigators allege Demeter obtained mifepristone, a medication used in medication abortions, and covertly administered it intending to end the pregnancy.
Before the medical emergency, the mother told detectives Demeter repeatedly pressured her to end the pregnancy and offered to pay for travel out of state to get an abortion. She told investigators she refused and intended to carry the baby to term.
Trauma therapist Chau Nguyen said this case highlights what’s known as reproductive coercion which is a pattern of behavior that can include pressuring, controlling or manipulating someone’s reproductive choices.
“This act of abuse is a form of domestic violence,” Nguyen said. “He took her decision to have a child against her will and he took it away from her.”
Nguyen urged anyone who recognizes similar warning signs to connect victims with help.
“If you hear something in a relationship, whether it be a friend or a family member or a coworker and something doesn’t feel right, refer them to resources. There are help centers, there’s help available, there’s counselors, domestic violence organizations that could share with them and let them know that there are options.”
Demeter is being held without bond and has a bond review hearing scheduled Wednesday morning. KPRC 2 News spoke off camera with Demeter’s mother who referred us to his attorney. His attorney declined making a statement.