A 20-year-old South Carolina woman is facing serious criminal charges after authorities say she attempted to end her pregnancy at 27 weeks.
The case, which has shocked many residents, comes at a time when the state is debating even tougher abortion laws.
The situation has drawn widespread attention because of its timing and the unexpected legal twist surrounding late-term pregnancy laws.
Police were called to the Rock Hill home of Jocelyn Byrum on November 12 after a report of a medical emergency involving a miscarriage.
However, officers soon learned that the incident involved far more than a routine health call.
According to reports, Byrum told police she had taken medication with the intention of ending the pregnancy.
Emergency responders found the newborn alive and immediately provided lifesaving support.
The baby was rushed to the hospital and was reported to be in critical condition.
Meanwhile, authorities said Byrum did not call for help or give any aid after the birth.
Byrum was later arrested and charged with attempted murder and unlawful neglect of a child.
She was denied bond during a Tuesday hearing, according to local reports.
Under current state rules, abortions are banned after cardiac activity is detected, usually around six weeks.
Exceptions allow the procedure up to 12 weeks in cases of rape, incest, fatal fetal issues, or risks to the mother’s life.
However, lawmakers are now discussing an even stricter measure.
On Tuesday, a state subcommittee reviewed a near-total abortion ban that would remove most of the existing exceptions.
Furthermore, the proposal could send individuals involved in a pregnancy termination to prison for up to 30 years.
In addition, the bill would make it illegal to possess abortion pills, share information about abortion, or transport a minor out of state for the procedure.
It would also redefine embryos as full legal persons, change the meaning of legal contraception, and expand criminal penalties under what many describe as a wide-reaching and controversial plan.
Supporters argue it is meant to protect unborn children, while opponents warn that it could limit access to necessary healthcare and increase unsafe practices.
The debate comes as the nation continues to wrestle with reproductive rights following major changes in federal policy.
