Woman delivers baby inside York Correctional Institution

A woman who was being held in an East Lyme prison gave birth inside the facility Saturday afternoon.

The woman, in her early 20s and whose identity will not be disclosed because of confidentiality protections, was admitted to the York Correctional Institution Friday evening, the state Department of Correction said in a news release. She had been charged with violation of a protective order.

“A medical assessment upon intake revealed the woman was approximately eight months pregnant, detoxing from opiates, and she reported to have not received any prenatal care,” the department said, adding that she was assigned to a “medical unit where she could be closely monitored.”

Within 24 hours, around 3 p.m. Saturday, the woman believed she was going into labor, and after being evaluated by medical unit staff, 911 was called.

The baby was delivered before the ambulance arrived to the facility, but she and the newborn were later taken to a local hospital for further evaluation.

“Following policy and established protocols for expectant incarcerated mothers, our nursing staff safely delivered a baby during a situation where active labor to delivery was literally just a couple of minutes,” said DOC Commissioner Angel Quiros. “I commend the facility custody and health services staff for the quick response and remarkable care they provided. They were true professionals approaching a very sensitive situation with decency, respect and grace.”

The department said a preliminary review of treatment was in line with policy requirements.

“She was assessed at a community hospital prior to intake at the facility and had multiple contacts with nursing staff throughout the night,” the release said. “Her last assessment was just two hours before active labor at which time she had no complaints.”