Brittany Watts, an Ohio resident, finds herself at the center of a legal battle following a miscarriage that led to her arrest on charges of abuse of a corpse. The incident occurred on September 22, 2023, when Watts, who was 21 weeks pregnant, experienced a miscarriage at home. Afterward, she sought medical assistance, only to face criminal charges that have since been dismissed by a grand jury. Now, Watts is suing both the hospital and law enforcement for what she claims was a mishandling of her medical care and an unjust criminal accusation.
The ordeal began when Watts experienced severe pain and bleeding, prompting her to visit the hospital. Despite presenting symptoms indicative of a potential miscarriage, she received no substantial treatment or guidance. She was informed by a physician that her pregnancy had ended and that she faced risks of hemorrhage and sepsis. After spending several hours at the hospital, Watts returned home, only to revisit the hospital the following day due to ongoing concerns.
While still in her hospital bed, Watts was approached by a police officer for questioning. The officer, in collaboration with a nurse, allegedly produced a medical note falsely stating that Watts had seen and interacted with the fetus. This note became the basis for criminal charges against her.
Watts was arrested in early October on the felony charge of abuse of a corpse. Had she been convicted, she could have faced up to a year in prison. However, in January 2024, a grand jury chose not to indict her, clearing her of the charges.
"overwhelming"
The arrest and subsequent media attention proved to be overwhelming for Watts.
Her attorney, Rickert, emphasized Watts's resolve in seeking justice.
"She feels strongly that that is not how medical care should work," said Rickert.
At the heart of Watts's lawsuit are allegations that the police officer and medical staff conspired to fabricate evidence against her. She is pursuing significant damages for both the inadequate medical care she received and the criminalization she endured. Rickert highlighted Watts's intentions moving forward.
"She wants to be in a position to provide people with better care," Rickert stated.
Rickert also noted that Watts had never sought public attention before this incident.
"She was not someone who had ever sought the spotlight."
This case has ignited widespread concern over the implications of the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which has led to a wave of abortion restrictions across the United States. Critics argue that these legislative changes could endanger pregnant women by criminalizing miscarriages and increasing police involvement in personal health matters.
Legal experts warn that cases like Watts's may become more prevalent as states implement stricter abortion laws. They argue that such laws could result in increased scrutiny and criminal investigations into miscarriages, potentially infringing on women's reproductive rights and privacy.
Medical professionals express concern over the chilling effect these developments may have on women's healthcare. They worry that fear of legal repercussions might deter pregnant women from seeking necessary medical assistance during emergencies, potentially compromising their health and safety.
Advocates for women's rights call for reforms to ensure that miscarriages are treated as medical issues rather than criminal ones. They emphasize the importance of protecting women's rights to access safe and respectful healthcare without fear of legal consequences.