Charleston, WV (WOAY) – The West Virginia Prosecuting Attorneys Association is taking a public stance on criminalizing miscarriages.
In an official statement, the association clarifies that any claims that individuals who suffer a miscarriage in West Virginia should notify law enforcement or face potential criminal prosecution are not supported by state law.
It further states it does not agree with or support the idea that experiencing a miscarriage could or should lead to criminal liability.
The Prosecuting Attorneys Association states, “Such a position is contrary to the law and values held by prosecutors statewide who are committed to justice, compassion, and appropriate application of criminal statutes.”
The statement follows Raleigh County prosecuting attorney Tom Truman’s appearance on national news, where he discusses the possibility of criminalization amid the nation’s constantly changing political landscape.
In the interview, Truman told CNN’s Pam Brown that while he personally wouldn’t prosecute someone for a miscarriage, he made suggestions to avoid this out of an abundance of caution.
