In September 2023, Jessica Lloyd, a young Liberian lady, nearly lost her life when her throat was slit by an American missionary named Lucas Richards. Lucas was sent to Liberia by Creekside Church in Urbandale, IA to support the church's work in rural Liberia, and Jessica was his student. Although legally married in the US, Lucas married Jessica in a traditional wedding in Monrovia in the presence of her parents and other family members. Jessica became pregnant with Lucas' but he illegally administered medication to abort the pregnancy and continued to be involved with her.

When the church in Liberia became aware of Lucas' affair with Jessica, he attempted to kill her by the roadside with a knife and also physically attacked her with a wrench. However, he was caught in the act and apprehended by passersbys who handed him over safely to the Liberian National Police.

Recently, on April 17, 2024, Judge Nelson Chinneh of Criminal Court B, who presided over a bench trial shockingly cleared Lucas of all charges, finding him NOT GUILTY of the crime. This ruling has left many Liberians saddened and deeply concerned, as we believe that the Liberian justice system is plagued by corruption and Jessica was not adequately represented by her legal counsel. The court ruling has failed Jessica, her family, and the women of Liberia, which is why we are demanding JUSTICE.

We have learned that Lucas Richards is currently in the United States, and the chances of a retrial are slim due to existing laws. However, we do understand the power of a people united for justice. Therefore, we are calling an investigation into the judge, prosecutors and all who were involved in this case and a possible retrial based on the following:

1) Violation of the Plaintiff's Constitutional Rights: It is evident that Jessica's constitutional rights were violated throughout the legal proceedings, and this deserves thorough investigation.

2) Prosecutorial Misconduct: We believe that there were instances of prosecutorial misconduct during the trial, which may have influenced the outcome. We are aware that the Plaintiff's family was offered and refused US$10,000- $20,000 to drop the case.

3) Judicial Error: There are concerns about potential judicial errors that may have affected the fairness and integrity of the trial, and these must be addressed.

We are determined to seek justice for Jessica and ensure that the defendant and all compromised parties are held accountable. Please join us in signing this petition and raising our voices to demand justice for Jessica Lloyd and the countless other victims who have been failed by the Liberian justice system.

#JusticeForJessica