In April 2016, a tragic accident changed the life of Cedric Neal Barr Jr. forever. Cedric was a 23-year-old senior at LeMoyne-Owen College in Memphis, Tennessee, just weeks away from graduating with his degree. He was working two jobs, preparing for his future as a history teacher, and balancing the joys and challenges of being a new father.

On April 13, Cedric decided to spend a special day with his son. After playing at the park, he placed his son in a warm bath while he stepped briefly into the next room to grab clothes and towels. In those few moments, the unimaginable happened—his little boy drowned. Cedric rushed back, attempted CPR, and then frantically drove his son to the hospital, but despite his desperate efforts, his son could not be revived.

Cedric not only lost his child that day—he also lost his freedom. He was arrested, prosecuted, and in 2020 convicted of Second Degree Murder and Aggravated Child Neglect, receiving a 25-year sentence at 100%. With no prior criminal record, Cedric was punished with the maximum penalty.

Cedric’s Transformation in Prison

For the past nine years, Cedric has grieved deeply while also dedicating himself to becoming a better man:

• Education: Earned his HiSet (GED) and has been readmitted to LeMoyne-Owen College, now only four classes away from completing his bachelor’s degree.
• Rehabilitation: Completed numerous programs, including Cognitive Behavioral Intervention, Trauma Reboot, and Finding the Good Life.
• Mentorship: Tutored fellow incarcerated men working toward their GEDs, continuing his lifelong passion for teaching.
• Work Ethic: Held steady prison jobs and even sent paychecks home to support his family.
• Good Conduct: Maintained a largely clean record, avoided gangs and drugs, and chosen a path of positivity and faith.
   

Why Clemency Is Justified

Cedric was young, inexperienced, and a first-time parent when this tragedy occurred. He never intended harm, and he has spent nearly a decade proving that he is capable of living responsibly, productively, and compassionately.

• Rehabilitation: He has taken every opportunity for self-improvement.
• Young Age at Offense: At just 23, Cedric was still learning how to be a father.
• Excessive Sentence: For a first-time offender, the 25-year maximum sentence is far harsher than necessary. Cedric is requesting that his sentence be reduced to the statutory minimum of 15 years. With nearly 9 years already served, this would allow him a meaningful chance to rejoin his family and community while still young enough to rebuild his life.
   

One Man’s Spiritual Journey

Cedric Barr’s cherished Christian faith is rooted in the teachings of forgiveness, mercy, and transformation found in Scripture. He believes, as Matthew 6:14–15 reminds us, that forgiving others is essential to receiving God’s forgiveness, and he strives daily to live by that principle. He also takes to heart Jesus’ command in Matthew 7:1–5 to examine his own faults before judging others, recognizing the importance of humility and personal growth. Like the woman shown mercy in John 8:7–12, Cedric knows that all people fall short, yet Christ offers forgiveness and the light of a new life. Above all, Cedric holds fast to Jesus’ words in John 14:6, that true redemption and eternal life are found in Him alone. These beliefs have guided Cedric throughout his incarceration and continue to shape his commitment to forgiveness, accountability, and living a renewed life.

Cedric’s Future Plans

If released, Cedric intends to:

• Finish his bachelor’s degree and pursue graduate education.
• Fulfill his dream of becoming a high school history teacher and college professor.
• Rebuild family connections and become a devoted husband and father.
• Give back to the community through mentorship, teaching, and volunteer work.
   

Why You Should Sign

This petition is not about erasing the past. It is about recognizing growth, responsibility, and redemption. Cedric has already endured the greatest loss a father can face. Continuing to keep him incarcerated for another 12–15 years does not serve justice, but granting clemency would show that Tennessee believes in second chances.

By signing this petition, you are urging Governor Bill Lee and the Tennessee Board of Parole to grant Cedric Barr a commutation of his sentence.

Together, we can help Cedric turn tragedy into transformation and give him the chance to honor his son’s memory through a life of purpose, service, and love.

Please sign and share. Your voice matters.