Alabama jail staff didn’t help when she went into labor - other inmates did, lawsuit says
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- Tiffany McElroy, a pregnant inmate in an Alabama jail, went into preterm labor in May 2024 but was denied timely medical care despite her water breaking and signs of pregnancy complications, according to a federal lawsuit.
- Jail staff allegedly ignored her pleas for help, provided only a diaper and Tylenol, and failed to call 911 as McElroy gave birth alone with assistance from fellow inmates, who helped resuscitate the newborn.
- The lawsuit accuses multiple jail officials, including guards, medical personnel, and the sheriff, of violating McElroy’s constitutional rights due to systemic cost-cutting and inadequate care policies for pregnant inmates.
- Alabama leads the nation in pregnancy criminalization cases, with many women charged under laws targeting substance use during pregnancy; advocates argue for fewer incarcerations of pregnant women and improved care standards.
- McElroy survived the traumatic birth and has since been released, but her experience highlights widespread issues of neglect and abuse faced by incarcerated pregnant women nationwide.