cross-posted from: https://midwest.social/post/6666536

(CNN) — An Ohio woman who had sought treatment at a hospital before suffering a miscarriage and passing her nonviable fetus in her bathroom now faces a criminal charge, her attorney told CNN.

Brittany Watts, 33, of Warren, has been charged with felony abuse of a corpse, Trumbull County court records show.

“Ms. Watts suffered a tragic and dangerous miscarriage that jeopardized her own life. Rather than focusing on healing physically and emotionally, she was arrested and charged with a felony,” her attorney, Traci Timko, told CNN in an email.

“Ms. Watts’ case is pending before the Trumbull County Grand Jury. I have advised her not to speak publicly until the criminal matter has resolved.”

Though a coroner’s office report said the fetus was not viable and had died in the womb, Watts’ case highlights the extent to which prosecutors can charge a woman whose pregnancy has ended – whether by abortion or miscarriage.

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  • Whirlybird
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    6 months ago

    She wasn’t necessarily “offered”.

    She was though. It was recommended to her as the course of action on 3 separate occasions when she went in. She walked out all 3 times, one time while they were prepping for the abortion.

    What is a woman who miscarries into a toilet supposed to do?

    Not attempt to flush it down the toilet. Not try to just throw it away. Call an ambulance. Call the police. Call the fire station. Call anyone.

    It just seems like punishing the victim.

    She wasn’t a victim of anything.