The family of Gezo Edwards are looking for your support in securing the release of a man who is very dear to us, we need him home. In 2011, he was arrested and later convicted of a non-violent drug offense and was sentenced to life.  We feel, as do many, that he and thousands others in similar situations have been over sentenced.

As a family, we are committed to shedding light on the issue of 'relevant conduct,' a legal practice that, from our perspective, should be deemed illegal due to its contribution to over-sentencing. It's disheartening to observe that the fundamental concept of American liberties, which underscores the need to find a person 'guilty beyond a reasonable doubt,' is, in reality, directly tied to the severity of the individual's punishment. Unfortunately, a considerable number of people remain either unaware or indifferent to the unsettling reality that our government is sentencing individuals based on a standard lower than 'reasonable doubt

My father was convicted for one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5kg of cocaine.  His base offense level was 36 points indicating an advisory sentence around 17 years.  His sentence should be based upon what he was found guilty of, but this is not the case for my father and many others:

• The government enhanced his sentence 10 points for conduct that was NOT on the indictment and NEVER went before the jury
• Two of the points actually came from a charge he was found INNOCENT of
• Based upon the extra points his sentence went from 17 years to life

We ask for your support in signing our petition because as of 2015 mandatory sentences have been DEEMED ILLEGAL. It is disheartening that our loved one has already served over 12 years behind bars. The duration he has served behind bars adequately reflects the gravity of his offense, serving as a just punishment and fostering respect for the law. Moreover, it's crucial to note that his offense now carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in jail. Throughout his incarceration, my father has remained free of any further legal issues, seizing every opportunity to enhance himself and maintain a presence in the lives of his children. The person he is today differs significantly from the individual arrested many years ago. 

Currently the demand for criminal justice reform is on the way and some incarcerated persons are filing motions to the courts or the president to reconsider their sentence.  Whatever avenue our incarcerated loved ones choose to take, they still need our support. We realize during 2020 and after the power we can achieve when we activate unity.

Signing this petition to bring home my father to his community of loved ones, not only shows your support against mass incarceration, but also makes real change for the entire community at large.