The shackling of pregnant women poses a great health risk to them and their fetuses. It is particularly dangerous during labor and delivery when women most need freedom of movement and medical staff may need to conduct emergency procedures.
Among the states that have restricted shackling of 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.
The DOC has already voluntarily placed limits on the use of restraints on pregnant inmates in state prisons. Local and regional facilities should follow suit.
