Rock Hill, SC – A 20-year-old woman in Rock Hill is facing serious charges after police say she deliberately attempted to induce a miscarriage at 27 weeks pregnant, leading to the premature delivery of a baby who was born alive in a bathroom.
According to details shared in court and reporting from The Herald, investigators allege the woman had ordered abortion pills online, sending a text message to a friend saying “my abortion pills came in” just one day before the birth occurred.
Allegations That Led to the Criminal Charges
Investigators state that Jocelyn Byrum, the young mother at the centre of the case, took the pills with the intentional goal of ending her pregnancy. Police say she gave birth on 11 November inside a home on Riverview Road.
A detective from the Rock Hill Police Department, Tayler Englert, told the court that Byrum admitted she took the medication to induce labor and end the pregnancy. Officials further allege that she discussed her intentions with a friend, who replied, “Yeah, get it gone.”
Authorities have charged Byrum with attempted murder and unlawful neglect of a child, two of the most serious child-related charges under South Carolina law.
How Police Responded to the Emergency
After delivering the baby in a toilet, Byrum allegedly called 911. When officers and EMS arrived, she reportedly confessed to what happened. Emergency responders performed lifesaving measures, and the baby was transported to a hospital for advanced medical care.
Despite the circumstances, police say the infant is expected to survive, a detail that has shaped both the investigation and the severity of the charges.
Courtroom Reaction and Current Legal Status
During Tuesday’s court hearing, Byrum reportedly became emotional as detectives described the allegations and the messages exchanged with her friend. The judge denied her bond and issued a no-contact order, preventing Byrum and her family from seeing the child as the case moves forward.
If convicted, Byrum faces up to 30 years in prison for attempted murder and an additional 10 years for unlawful neglect.
South Carolina Law and Why the Charges Are So Severe
South Carolina has one of the strictest legal frameworks in the country regarding unborn children and fetal harm. Attempting to end a pregnancy outside legal medical channels can trigger some of the harshest penalties.
Key reasons these charges apply include:
- The pregnancy was at 27 weeks, well into the third trimester.
- The infant was born alive, making the alleged action legally treated as an attempt to kill a child rather than terminate a pregnancy.
- Communication showing intent, such as “my abortion pills came in,” gives prosecutors strong evidence of premeditation.
What Detectives Say They Found Most Concerning
Detective Englert noted two major points in court:
- Byrum admitted taking medication to end the pregnancy.
- She sent photographs of the newborn to family members immediately after the delivery.
These details, authorities say, reinforce the case for attempted murder.
Community Reaction and Public Debate
Cases like this tend to reignite debates around reproductive rights, access to healthcare, and the criminalisation of pregnancy outcomes. In similar incidents nationwide, advocacy groups have questioned whether women facing traumatic pregnancy situations are receiving adequate medical and mental health support.
In South Carolina, where reproductive laws remain tight, cases involving self-managed abortions have become increasingly visible. Many argue that fear of legal consequences can push pregnant women into unsafe, isolated decisions.
What Happens Next in Byrum’s Case
Byrum will remain in custody while awaiting further hearings. Prosecutors are expected to present additional evidence, including medical reports, digital communications, and testimony from first responders.
Legal experts say jurors may focus on three critical issues:
- Intent: Whether Byrum knowingly attempted to end the life of a viable fetus.
- Actions before and after the birth: Including the ordering of pills and the 911 call.
- Medical evidence: Especially the health status of the baby and test results confirming what medications were taken.
The case is likely to draw continued public attention due to its complexity and emotional weight.
Conclusion
This developing case highlights how actions taken late in pregnancy can lead to some of the most severe criminal charges under South Carolina law. As the baby continues to recover, the legal system will now determine how intent, evidence, and state statutes shape the outcome for the 20-year-old mother.
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