FBI Investigates Children’s Hospitals Over Potential Violations of Genital Mutilation Laws
The FBI has initiated criminal investigations into three children’s hospitals following a commitment from Attorney General Pam Bondi to enforce federal laws prohibiting genital mutilation in women. This move is intended to protect children from surgeries that can lead to irreversible changes.
Sources informed about the investigation, who prefer to remain anonymous, mentioned that the focus is on healthcare providers at Boston Children’s Hospital, Colorado Children’s Hospital, and Children’s Hospital. These institutions have reportedly been significant providers of sex change procedures for minors in recent years.
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump issued an executive order instructing federal agencies to cease permitting “irreversible medical interventions” as treatments for gender distress. Part of this directive included Bondi’s forthcoming memorandum aimed at reinforcing 18 USC §116, which addresses the issue of genital mutilation.
Bondi’s memo indicated that she has alerted practitioners and hospitals about the serious nature of female genital mutilation (FGM)—a felony if performed on individuals under 18, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. She directed all U.S. attorneys to investigate any suspected cases of FGM masked as “gender-maintaining care” and to pursue maximum legal repercussions.
Moreover, she announced the formation of a coalition against child amputation, aligning with state attorneys general to prepare legal actions against hospitals or practitioners breaching federal or state laws regarding FGM. The memo also mentioned that the Justice Department is drafting a law to establish a private right of action for children and families affected by unnecessary medical interventions.
As the Trump administration emphasizes restrictions on irreversible treatments for minors, numerous hospitals are re-evaluating their policies regarding gender transition treatments and surgeries.
Recently, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles revealed plans to permanently close its Transyouth Health and Development center, a decision that sparked considerable attention and seemingly aligns with broader policy shifts affecting transgender care.
Initially, Colorado Children’s Hospital halted medical services for transgender patients under 19 in response to the executive order. However, after a court ruling blocked Trump’s order, the hospital announced it would again provide adolescent blockers and hormone treatments to minors.
A spokesperson for Colorado Children’s Hospital clarified that the facility has never offered surgical interventions for transgender individuals under 18 and had previously ceased such procedures even for adults.
On the other hand, Boston Children’s Hospital continues to operate its Multi-Gender Services program, although it restricts surgeries to patients aged 18 and older. The GEMS program offers hormone therapy, adolescent blockers, and other support to patients below 18, including information about surgical options.
Boston Children’s Hospital stated they have not yet received any formal communication from the FBI regarding the investigations. The FBI, in line with its policy, has declined to confirm or comment on ongoing investigations.
