I am writing this letter not to ask for leniency but to ask for consideration due to circumstances. Starting at birth, born to a young mother whom was coming out of the system herself, I feel like I failed him by not teaching him even the basic life skills needed to be a functioning member of society. I myself have spent most  of my childhood and adult life in and out of jail  and prison. Due to a long life of drug and alcohol abuse. When De'Aundre was 13 he was admitted to pems ( baker acted) and they discovered PCP in system after investigation they concluded it was laced in the marijuana he had smoked. Unfortunately he didn't receive any follow up. I believe this to be one of many reasons he acts out criminally. He was only a child and following in the footsteps of his mother and a father who's health deteriorated before  De aundre could even become a adult. Passing away while he was incarcerated the first time. I am living proof that with the right support, proper therapy and help from the courts one can be a productive and contributor to our world . My son needs help and we're not asking, we are throwing ourselves on the mercy of the court asking not for forgiveness but may he receive help from the state of Florida and not just throw him in a state prison but offer some types of programs that will give him life skills and management with anger and or therapy. Possibly a downward departure? There are many many alternatives to this sentence and I ask again, please help my son get his life in order! I am asking for evaluations as well if this is a option. We are seeking council for him as I'm unsure he's able to make any decisions because he doesn't have legal council .

Edited 8-3-23

After doing research for my son's case I discovered there was a 65% law that has yet to be passed. It's beond me why, because this is exactly what not only my son but many many more young men that were raised just like my son. Read my story and if it's anything like you and your son, pls sign this for the passing of the 65% law.