Action | Amend Minimum Standards for Jails and Lockups to add requirements on restraint of pregnant offenders |
Stage | NOIRA |
Comment Period | Ended on 2/29/2012 |
I delivered my only child 7 years ago on January 19, 2005 in Laurel, Maryland, shackled to the bed by hand, waist and ankle. Thank God I had a smooth, fast delivery and did not find myself shackeled for hours on end, like some women are, as if they are animals. The experience was inhumane to say the least. No woman should ever have to endure such a traumatizing ordeal when giving birth to a child. I stand as a strong advocate in support of legistation banning the practice of shackling during labor and delivery. I am proud to know the state I reside, PA, has stepped up and ended this practice. Please put an end to this inhumane act in the Commonealth of Virginia.