Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Corrections
 
Board
State Board of Local and Regional Jails
 
chapter
Minimum Standards for Jails and Lockups [6 VAC 15 ‑ 40]
Action Amend Minimum Standards for Jails and Lockups to add requirements on restraint of pregnant offenders
Stage Final
Comment Period Ended on 5/7/2014
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4/30/14  1:05 pm
Commenter: John W. Duemmel

Restraining pregnant female inmates pre- in- post birth
 

The vast majority of female prisoners are non-violent offenders who pose a low security risk—particularly during labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery.  In the states that have outlawed the restraint of pregnant inmates, there have been no documented instances of a woman in labor or delivery escaping or causing harm to themselves, guards, or medical staff.  Local jails throughout the Commonwealth should immediately implement a policy of no-restraint of pregnant inmates.  Thank you.

CommentID: 31609