The intersection of law enforcement and pregnancy often sparks complex ethical and legal dilemmas. This was evident in the case of Quachia Orenchak, a pregnant woman arrested for drug possession in Binghamton, New York. While Orenchak’s attorney alleges police misconduct led to her miscarriage, body camera footage provides a different perspective on the events of that day.
A Routine Traffic Stop Turns into Drug Arrest
On March 20th, Binghamton police attempted to stop Orenchak’s Range Rover, leading to a low-speed pursuit that ended in a minor collision when a police cruiser pulled in front of her vehicle. Body camera footage shows Orenchak exiting the vehicle without assistance, contradicting her attorney’s claim that officers forcefully removed her.
“Step out, step out,” the officer can be heard saying calmly, as Orenchak complies and exits her vehicle. The footage further reveals Orenchak denying she drove off, stating she was “pulling over as soon as [she] found a place.” However, officers placed her under arrest.
The Discovery and Denial of Drugs
Upon searching Orenchak’s vehicle, officers discovered a scale. When questioned, Orenchak denied possessing any other illicit substances. “You have anything hidden in your bra or anything like that? You understand you go to jail, you’re going to get strip-searched,” the officer explains. Orenchak replies, “Yes, okay,” and insists she has nothing hidden.
Subsequent tests revealed traces of fentanyl and methamphetamine in Orenchak’s system, further complicating the situation.
Concerns for Orenchak’s Wellbeing
Throughout the interaction, the officer demonstrates concern for Orenchak’s well-being, particularly her pregnancy. Body camera footage shows him offering reassurance and fetching her water.
“We have our…it’s a situation that we’re in right now, but ultimately at the end of the day, like I told you before, I’m a reasonable guy,” the officer states. “I see that you’re pregnant. If you’re not good, you need to let me know because your well-being is part of my responsibility.”
Orenchak responds, “I’m okay, alright, I’m…”
A Miscarriage and Legal Battles Ahead
Following her arrest, Orenchak was found unresponsive in Broome County Jail and transported to the hospital, where she tragically suffered a miscarriage at six months of pregnancy. This heartbreaking event adds another layer to an already complex case.
Orenchak now faces multiple charges, including drug possession and fleeing an officer. While her attorneys maintain their allegations of police misconduct, arguing the arrest directly led to her miscarriage, the body camera footage offers a different narrative.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the multifaceted challenges when pregnancy intersects with the criminal justice system, leaving many questions unanswered and prompting further examination of law enforcement procedures involving pregnant women.