Keith Erickson is someone we know through a deeply personal connection. Meeting him through our friends, we have witnessed first-hand his journey with the criminal justice system, a journey that led to him receiving a life sentence without the possibility of parole. We, as a community, feel this sentence should be reduced, providing him of a future beyond the prison walls. 

Keith, against the odds, has transformed himself. He possesses a sincerity and dedication to self-improvement that is rare. He hasn't allowed his sentence to limit the work he can do on himself; instead, he has utilized his time to become a person who would positively contribute to any community he joins.

Over the years, Keith Erickson has:

-Transformed from a gang member into a mentor.

-Facilitated in-prison programs such as Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, Criminals & Gangs Anonymous, Parenting Classes (English & Spanish), and Domestic Violence classes.

-Led a Youth-Adult Awareness Program, guiding at-risk teens through authentic transformation stories.

-Worked with service dog training programs, including the New Life Canine Dog Program, training Labradors and Retrievers for veterans and first responders with PTSD, and Wileys Wishes.

-Shared personal writings in Walk in Those Shoes and The Beat Within, confronting trauma and offering hope to others.

-Served as Chief Editor of the 4Paws Newsletter, illustrated the GOGI Life Tools Coloring Book, and earned an Associate's Degree in Behavioral Science, working toward a Bachelor's degree.

Keith has not only rehabilitated himself but has dedicated his life to uplifting others, both inside and outside of prison walls. His decades of service, mentoring, and creative contributions show he is no longer the young man who entered prison at 22. He is a writer, artist, leader, and example of true change. Keith has written three books Unleashed: A Prisoner, A Dog, and the Road to Redemption, Fiona & Fin: A Wiley’s Wish Adventure, and Trauma Unraveled: Reflections from Prison on Hurt and Healing. He is currently working on kids coloring book!

We believe Keith Erickson deserves a second chance at freedom-to continue his work in the community, to help prevent youth from following the same path, and to live the remainder of his life outside the confines of prison walls. We aren’t asking for a free pass for Keith. Instead we are asking for fairness- a change for him to present his case of transformation, resilience, and redemption. A commutation or resentencing could represent his chance for him to positively impact his community and a chance to serve as a productive member of society once again, with the hope that his release would impact youth involved in violence or gang activity to change their lives as well.

Your signature on this petition can help give Keith Erickson an opportunity at a second chance, a chance he has been working towards and undeniably earned. Please sign this petition for commutation or resentencing of Keith Erickson.