While much of our criminal justice system reflects appropriate concern for the safety and welfare of the Commonwealth’s residents, too often it falls short on appropriate displays of compassion and mercy. Reported cases in Virginia point to the practice of shackling female prisoners during childbirth. While seemingly barbaric, this is simply an example of a corrections system so focused on a onesize-fits-all regulation structure that it puts the lives of mothers and children in danger by treating them as dangerous criminals.

But shackling presents a real threat to the life of the mother and her child. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Medical Association, and the United Nations have condemned the practice due to health risks.

This policy does not present a safety threat to the correctional officers or the public. Among the states that have restricted restraints on pregnant inmates, none have documented instances of women in labor or delivery escaping or causing harm to themselves, the public, security guards, or medical staff.  We in Virginia need to embrace the dignity and the woman and allow for a restraint free birth.  Please allow this regulation to be changed by the Department of Corrections.  Thank you.