It's been seven long years since my son was incarcerated for his first-ever offense. Each day feels like an eternity as we await some form of justice or clemency. What makes this situation even more painful is the fact that all of his charge partners, individuals also involved in the incident, are either back home or on their way home after serving their time. Yet, my son remains behind bars.

This issue is deeply personal to me, and it strikes at the very heart of our family's well-being. His absence is most profoundly felt by his daughter. For the past three years, I have shouldered the responsibility of raising her as her mother sadly passed away. Despite my best efforts, there are truths about a girl’s life that only a father can explain; there are comforts and guidance that only he can provide. The loss of her mother was a wound, and missing her father has only deepened that hurt. She is struggling to cope with a reality of growing up without either parent around.

Statistics show that the presence of both parents in a child's life significantly influences their emotional and social development. According to research published in the Journal of Family Psychology, children with active father figures are more likely to develop healthier peer relationships and perform better academically. This alone should be a compelling reason for reconsideration of my son's prolonged incarceration. Additionally, releasing him poses no threat to the community as he has shown exemplary behavior throughout his imprisonment.

We urge the Parole Board and the authorities involved in this case to reconsider my son's continued imprisonment. Reviewing his case with fairness and a sense of compassion, especially in light of his first-time offense, is not only right, but it is justified when compared to the outcomes of his peers.

Let's stand together for the sake of a father and daughter who are unjustly separated. We believe in second chances and in the capacity for rehabilitation and change. Please join us in calling for the release of my son, not just for his sake, but for the sake of a little girl who deserves the love and guidance of her father.

Please sign this petition to support our cause.