WICHITA, Kan. (AP) – A Kansas woman accused of violating federal law that protects access to abortion services is accusing the Justice Department of violating her right to free speech and religious freedom.

The contention is included in a court filing Tuesday in the case of Angel Dillard. The government sued Dillard last month, alleging the Valley Center woman sent a threatening letter to Dr. Mila Means. The Justice Department is seeking monetary damages and an injunction keeping Dillard away from the doctor, her clinic and her home.

Dillard contends her letter is constitutionally protected free speech. She claims the government’s conduct has violated her right of religious freedom because the injunction it seeks would effectively keep her from attending her church near the clinic.

Dillard seeks attorney fees and $5,000 per violation.

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