The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of North Carolina has joined forces with several legal and advocacy groups to appeal a case involving Tracey Edwards, an incarcerated woman who faced significant challenges while giving birth. The appeal was filed on February 28th with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
While serving time at the North Carolina Correctional Institution for Women, Ms. Edwards experienced a sudden cessation of her medication for opioid use disorder following childbirth. This abrupt withdrawal led to severe pain and potential health risks. Additionally, Ms. Edwards was shackled during and after childbirth, which violated the institution's policies and hindered her ability to connect with her newborn.
D Dangaran, Director of Gender Justice Rights Behind Bars, commented on the situation: “People who are incarcerated deserve respect and dignity, as well as safe and responsive medical care.” They criticized the actions taken by prison officials as exacerbating harm during a vulnerable period for Ms. Edwards.
Shana Khader from Tycko & Zavareei LLP noted that these actions not only caused physical suffering but also increased the risk of serious consequences such as relapse or overdose: “Defendants in this case violated medical standards of care as well as Ms. Edwards’ civil rights.”
Ms. Edwards had initially brought forward claims under the Eighth Amendment and federal disability rights laws but faced a setback when the district court ruled against her. The current appeal seeks to overturn this decision, allowing a jury to evaluate her claims.
Joseph Longley from ACLU Disability Rights Program emphasized the broader implications of this case: “This appeal is about accountability... No one should be denied access to their lifesaving medications for opioid use disorder.” He stressed the importance of ensuring that such treatment does not recur.
For more detailed information, the brief related to this case can be accessed online.
