In the United States, almost 12,000 individuals are currently serving life sentences for offenses committed before the age of 18.

Gerald Davison, Jr. has spent 16 years incarcerated in the Nevada Department of Corrections, serving a sentence of "life with the possibility of parole." Gerald was arrested at the age of 16 in 2008 and originally sentenced to 28 years. As concerned Americans, we advocate for an end to mass incarceration and excessive punishment, challenging racial and economic injustice, and safeguarding basic human rights for the most vulnerable individuals in our society.

Throughout Gerald's incarceration, he has dedicated himself to personal growth and positively influencing his environment. Engaging in various academic, restorative justice, and mentorship initiatives, he has actively participated in rehabilitative programs. Notably, he achieved certification as a Paralegal in 2022 and is a few credits away from earning his associate's degree at Western Nevada College where his exceptional academic performance has earned him multiple scholarships. Concurrently, Gerald is working towards a certificate of achievement in Welding Technology, equipping himself with the skills needed to establish and operate his own welding business upon his eventual release. He is an avid reader, studies law, participates in counseling and even worked in hospice care caring for sick inmates.

Gerald, a selfless and good-hearted individual, deserves a chance to reintegrate into society. He has matured beyond his years, demonstrating unwavering faith and conviction. Above all, he is profoundly remorseful for his past actions and intends to dedicate his life to guiding troubled youth away from similar mistakes. In fact, Gerald launched a non-profit organization, CARE , www.carecommunitynv.org, targeting justice impacted youth. CARE is dedicated to mitigating crime and gang violence through mentorship, advocacy, and education. CARE's mission encompasses reducing youth incarceration rates, decreasing crime, minimizing recidivism, and preventing tragic outcomes. CARE will also offer programming and support to underserved caretakers to equip with tools and resources necessary to break cycles of trauma and address factors associated with poverty. 

This petition not only seeks support for Gerald's early release but also aims to raise awareness about Truth in Sentencing Laws that condemn youth to prolonged or lifelong incarceration without the opportunity to demonstrate rehabilitation. Research on adolescent brain development reinforces the common-sense understanding that children are different from adults in ways critical to identifying age-appropriate criminal sentences. This understanding highlights the need to consider the unique developmental stages and cognitive capacities of young individuals when determining legal consequences.

After 16 years of incarceration, we firmly believe Mr. Davison deserves the chance to rebuild his life and contribute positively to society. We are urging a reassessment of the length and nature of his sentence, and we request an opportunity to be heard by the Nevada Pardons Board on his behalf, specifically seeking clemency for his immediate release.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Your support is crucial in advocating for compassion, rehabilitation, and fairness within our criminal justice system.

"The closer we get to mass incarceration and extreme levels of punishment, the more I believe it's necessary to recognize that we all need mercy, we all need justice, and—perhaps—we all need some measure of unmerited grace."-Stevenson

*While we appreciate your thoughtful donations, proceeds do not go to Gerald nor his legal defense. Instead, we kindly ask that you leave a comment.Your words could significantly contribute to highlighting the importance of his situation to the pardon's board. Every voice matters, and your comment could make a difference.