I am writing this petition with a heavy heart and a deep resolve to seek justice for Paul Granados, my life partner and love of my life. On June 2, 2024, our lives changed forever due to the reckless actions of Terence Cotter. Paul was riding his motorcycle home from work, completely unaware of the tragedy that was about to unfold. Cotter, after consuming nine glasses of wine, decided to drive, struck two vehicles in the parking lot before speeding away at 72 mph down a city street resulting in a catastrophic collision with Paul. The impact was severe, causing Paul to lose his left lower leg instantly—a life sentence of hardship and pain that no one should have to endure.

Despite the gravity of his actions, Terence Cotter was sentenced to only nine months of incarceration for what was a staggering level of intoxication. Now, he stands to serve merely half of even this extremely lenient sentence if released early. To release Cotter before completing his full sentence would be an undeniable miscarriage of justice, sending a perilous message that such reckless and life-altering behavior can avoid adequate accountability.

Paul now faces the realities of living with a permanent, life-altering injury every single day. Yet, the man responsible could soon walk free, his slate almost wiped clean by the system meant to enforce justice. Allowing Cotter’s early release would belittle the suffering he caused and undermine the integrity of our legal systems.

We urge the New Jersey State Parole Board to stand in solidarity with us, with Paul, and with the values of justice and accountability. Justice demands it. Paul deserves it. Our community expects it.

Please, I ask you, to sign this petition and join us in ensuring that Terence Cotter serves the entirety of his sentence. Let us uphold justice and show that actions have consequences, especially when they irreparably harm others. Together, we can make sure that justice is served for Paul and our community as a whole.