In 2010, Derrick Lamar McKnight was sentenced as a first-time offender in Nevada for a crime where he served as an accessory. Over the past 19 years, Derrick has been incarcerated with no chance of parole, serving a life sentence following a conviction as in accused getaway driver. Because of the felony murder rule he was charged and convicted of murder, robbery, burglary, and conspiracy.

MORE THAN 19 YEARS HAVE PASSED.

Derrick has spent more than half of his adult life behind bars.

He has had years to reflect, mature, accept responsibility, and consider the consequences of the choices that brought him to prison.

During his imprisonment, Derrick has taken proactive steps to better himself; he earned his high school diploma and participated in numerous rehabilitation programs, showcasing his determination to adjust his life for the better.

Derrick is more than his crime; Immediate family bonds have been severed, all while Derrick strives for a second chance in life—an opportunity to contribute positively to society.

What happened afterwards matters.

Derrick did not have counsel throughout his state post-conviction proceedings. His federal habeas proceedings include claims concerning ineffective assistance of counsel, and the federal court granted a stay in abeyance while the appropriate state-court remedies are pursued.

These are serious issues that deserve to be fully heard.

And while those legal proceedings continue, we ask Nevada to look at the whole person—not just the conviction.

Nevada’s own clemency criteria recognize that circumstances matter—including the distinction between a co-offender and the person who actually inflicted the fatal wounds.

If California can extend mercy and recognize the potential for rehabilitation by releasing over a thousand inmates in similar circumstances, “by way of California Senate bill 1437” why can’t Nevada consider the same path for Derrick?

California has also demonstrated that lengthy felony-murder sentences can receive a second look. Under California’s reforms, more than 1,100 people had their murder convictions vacated and were resentenced by the end of 2024, with approximately 78% subsequently released from prison.

In 2021, States like California have shown progressive stances on accessory crimes, recognizing that not all offenders pose an equal threat and that constant incarceration isn’t always the solution. Implementing a similar system in Nevada could ensure fairness and justice, removing the one-size-fits-all approach that disregards individual circumstances.

Through this petition, we implore Nevada’s justice system to reevaluate Derrick’s case with a compassionate lens. Our justice system is built on the principle of rehabilitation and second chances, and Derrick embodies the qualities of someone who is ready for reintegration.

We respectfully urge Nevada lawmakers and judicial authorities to assess this case thoroughly and consider granting Derrick an opportunity for parole. His rehabilitation, character growth, and the pressing need for family reunification emphasize that his time served is adequate for the role he was accused of playing. 

Please stand with us and sign this petition to encourage Nevada to embrace reformative justice and offer Derrick Lamar McKnight a chance to return to his family and his integral place within society. His future—and that of his family—deserve it.