West Virginia Prosecutor's Warning Sparks Debate Over Miscarriage Charges

West Virginia Prosecutor Warns Women Could Face Charges Over Miscarriages Charleston, WV – Amidst a shifting legal landscape surrounding reproductive rights, a West Virginia prosecutor has issued a warning to women in the state regarding potential criminal charges related to miscarriages. Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney Tom Truman recently told CNN that while he personally would not pursue charges in such cases, the state's statutes leave room for interpretation and potential prosecution. "Prosecutors have a pretty wide range of what they can pursue as criminal charges," Truman explained in an interview with CNN's Pamela Brown. He pointed to a statute concerning the concealment of a deceased body, noting, "There's a very fine line between miscarriages and very young children." He clarified that an absolute defense exists if the incident is reported to law enforcement within 48 hours. Truman's statement underscores the uncertainty and potential legal risks women face in West Virginia following miscarriages. His comments have sparked debate about the need for clearer legal guidelines and protections for women experiencing pregnancy loss. While Truman maintains he would not personally prosecute, the potential remains, highlighting the need for legislative clarification to protect women's rights and well-being. The issue is further complicated by the broad prosecutorial discretion afforded to individual prosecutors. This means that the application of the law can vary significantly depending on the prosecutor's personal beliefs and interpretations. Advocates are calling for legislative reform to ensure consistent and compassionate treatment of women experiencing miscarriages.