Orangeburg: Mother Faces Criminal Charges After Pregnancy Loss
In Orangeburg, South Carolina, a tragic case involving a pregnancy loss has led to serious legal repercussions for a 23-year-old woman, Amari Marsh. Just after completing her junior year at South Carolina State University in May 2023, she found herself wrapped in an upsetting legal battle following the unexpected loss of her pregnancy.
What Happened?
Marsh experienced a devastating loss in March 2023 when she went into labor during the night at her off-campus apartment. Due to what she later described as intense abdominal pain, she found herself giving birth unexpectedly while using the bathroom. “I couldn’t breathe,” she shared, recounting the chaotic moments that followed. When her boyfriend called for help, emergency responders reported signs of life but, tragically, Marsh’s daughter did not survive.
When Did This Case Unfold?
The aftermath of this incident led to an investigation by law enforcement. While Marsh initially believed she was not in any trouble, she later discovered that she was being criminally investigated. In August 2023, after spending 22 days in detention, a grand jury ultimately decided not to proceed with the case against her, clearing her of all charges. This decision came 13 months after the tragic loss of her child.
Where Are We Now?
Marsh’s story is particularly poignant in a nation where reproductive rights are highly contested. Since the Supreme Court’s decision in 2022 that enabled states to restrict abortion, legal and social implications surrounding pregnancy and maternal health have become increasingly complex. As Marsh’s situation highlights, the criminalization of pregnancy loss remains a pressing concern, especially for women of color.
Why Was She Charged?
A law enforcement report stated that Marsh was charged with murder/homicide by child abuse. The warrant claimed that her failure to move her newborn from the toilet contributed to the child’s death due to “respiratory complications.” Marsh claimed she had no awareness of any medical conditions that could have jeopardized her pregnancy, including an undiagnosed chlamydia infection.
The Broader Context
In light of Marsh’s experience, concerns regarding reproductive health and maternal support are brought to the forefront. U.S. Representative James Clyburn emphasized that these issues resonate beyond individual cases, raising alarm about the erosion of rights surrounding women’s health. According to polling data, a significant majority of voters across the nation desire the restoration of abortion rights, indicating that the political atmosphere remains charged as upcoming elections approach.
Impact on the Community
Marsh’s case exemplifies how societal and judicial reactions to pregnancy loss can significantly affect the lives of women. It raises critical questions about how health care providers handle such sensitive situations, particularly among marginalized groups. Statistics show that Black women in Orangeburg face significantly poorer maternal health outcomes, which adds another layer of complexity to Marsh’s situation.
Moving Forward
Having been released from detention, Marsh is currently working on rebuilding her life. She is taking community college classes and aspires to return to South Carolina State University to pursue a medical degree. Marsh intends to use her experience to help others who find themselves in similar circumstances, sharing her story as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity.
“Through all of this, I found my strength. I found my voice,” Marsh said, as she continues to navigate her journey of healing and advocacy.
