Gregory Keith Rakestrau has served 18 years in prison and is parole eligible. Prisons are overcrowded and social distancing is impossible. We are asking the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole and Governor Kemp to review his case to protect him from the COVID-19 outbreak that is currently plaguing the prison system in Georgia.

The COVID-19 outbreak has reached all parts of society and has not discriminated against race, gender, or socio-economic class. This outbreak is now plaguing our most vulnerable citizens which are those incarcerated in prison and in jails. The State of Georgia Department of Corrections has acknowledged cases throughout their prison system but little has been done to secure the health and well-being on the inmates. Prisoners like Gregory Keith Rakestrau are in open dorms subjected to contracting this virus without adequate means of prevention, healthcare, or sanitation. As leaders in the medical field and activists have noted, America’s prison system is vulnerable and a potential breeding ground for the coronavirus.  

Gregory Keith Rakestrau was convicted of murder in 2003 at the age of 18 and given a life sentence with the eligibility of parole. His first time up for parole came in 2016 and he was denied. Before his conviction, he had a very promising future heading to college with dreams of going to the Marines and no adult prior violations. One night and bad judgement led him to be where he is. He is remorseful and sorry for the crime he committed. He has served just as much time inside as he was outside growing up. While incarcerated, Gregory has showcased rehabilitation by bettering himself for his return to society. He has completed programs and acquired certifications such as the HVAC/NCCER Certification Program, Barber/Cosmetology Certification, Vocational Education Basic Computer Skills Class and Microsoft Office 2007 Certifications, Re-Entry Skills Building Certification of Achievement, Detour/Treatment Program, Fundamentals of Public Speaking Certification of Achievement, active in recreational team sports, and completed online college courses such as Information Technology at Middle Georgia State University. 

We are asking for the support of the community and all its members to sign this petition in favor of his release. Share this link with the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Parole at webmaster@pap.ga.gov.

Thank you!