# Birthkeeper accused of grooming women to fear hospitals may face criminal charges

https://mins.news/en/item/115277

- The Guardian, 2026-10-26 04:29 UTC
- Society
- Original: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/oct/26/birthkeeper-groomed-pregnant-women-melbourne-ntwnfb

> A Victorian coroner has heard that birthkeeper Emily Lal could be referred to prosecutors for possible criminal charges. Stacey Warnecke died at a Melbourne hospital after a home birth and postpartum haemorrhage. Counsel assisting the coroner said messages and a phone call showed Lal told Warnecke she should fear hospitals and needed a strong mindset to avoid giving birth in one.