A St. Peter’s man has been sentenced to more than 15 years in federal prison after admitting he kidnapped his pregnant girlfriend at gunpoint and forced her to travel across state lines in an attempt to make her get an abortion.
Kevin L. Smith, 42, pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping. After serving his prison term, he will face three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors said the crime took place in December 2022 when Smith abducted his girlfriend from her workplace in St. Charles and drove her to a Planned Parenthood clinic in Fairview Heights.
According to investigators, Smith used a loaded gun during the drive to threaten the victim and intimidate her into compliance. At one point, he threatened to shoot her in the head if she did not follow his demands. The victim was taken against her will across state lines, which led to federal charges.
Authorities emphasized the gravity of the case and the extensive work that went into bringing it to court. “This case represents a disturbing act of violence and abuse,” said Steve Johnson, Chief of the Fairview Heights Police Department. “Kevin Smith kidnapped his girlfriend at gunpoint and drove her across state lines against her will in an attempt to make her obtain an abortion, as per the Belleville News-Democrat.
His actions were those of a dangerous and manipulative individual. Our investigators worked tirelessly to bring the facts forward, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office ensured Smith was held accountable in federal court. This sentencing sends a clear message that acts of violence will not be tolerated in our community.”
Prosecutors also noted that Smith continued to target the victim even after his arrest. While in jail, he repeatedly harassed her and made additional threats, further demonstrating what investigators described as a pattern of control and intimidation.
The sentence closes a case that law enforcement officials say highlights the importance of swift intervention in situations involving domestic violence, coercion, and threats with deadly weapons. Federal authorities credited the investigative team for quickly gathering evidence that helped secure the conviction.
Smith will remain in federal custody until he completes the full prison term. After his release, the supervised period will require him to follow court-ordered conditions aimed at preventing future threats or contact with the victim.
The case stands as one of the more alarming instances of coercion tied to reproductive decisions in recent years, and authorities say the outcome underscores their commitment to protecting victims and pursuing severe penalties for violent offenders.
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