We, the undersigned, respectfully urge Governor Mike DeWine to grant clemency to Kali A. Armstrong, who has already served 18 years of an 18-to-life sentence after entering prison at only 17 years old.

Even though Kali was not the primary offender, every single day she carries the weight of her past. Not a day goes by that she does not think about the moment her life changed forever and the day a precious and innocent soul was lost. Her remorse runs deep, and she has never stopped grieving or taking responsibility for that loss.

But in the years since, Kali has refused to let prison consume her or define her. Instead, she used every opportunity to build herself up stronger and more resilient. She is a leader, a mentor, and a confident woman who owns her actions and strives to lift others up. Her accomplishments include:

• Earning two college degrees and completing nearly all requirements for her Bachelor’s in Finance.
• Completing every program available to her.
• Writing and publishing seven books of her own, while also helping others write, edit, and publish theirs.
• Being hand-selected by staff as a mentor to incoming juveniles, the only adult entrusted to be on call for them.
• Proving herself as a trusted and respected member of the prison community, someone other women look to for guidance and support.
• Saving money, starting a small business, and preparing herself for independence upon her release.
• Securing a job, waiting for her upon release, and building a strong family and community support system, eager to welcome her home.

She has done all this while missing out on birthdays, graduations, holidays, and everyday moments with her loved ones, growing from a teenager into a woman inside prison walls.

Eighteen years later, keeping Kali behind bars no longer serves justice. She has demonstrated rehabilitation, accountability, and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference.

By signing this petition, you are standing with us to say that redemption is real, mercy matters, and it is time to give Kali the chance to come home. With her release, she looks forward to finally living her life surrounded by family, love, and hope. Her goals and aspirations can help make not only her immediate community but America itself greater than before. She is determined to be a voice for second chances and an inspiration to today’s youth, something our nation needs now more than ever.

Add your name and help show that second chances and justice can go hand in hand.