In 2009, Kevin Joseph, a kind-hearted Black man was sentenced to life in prison plus 30 years in Florida for a crime he didn’t commit. He was involved in what was supposed to be a drug deal along  with two white men — John Christopher Ellis and Kevin Rowland — when one of them pulled a gun and started shooting into a house, killing someone.

Kevin, unarmed and terrified, ran away when the guns came out. The two white men were caught at the scene with firearms in their hands and later received just 15-year and 17-year sentences. They are both free today.

Kevin was unfairly labeled in court as “the Black guy with gold teeth,” reinforcing racial stereotypes that influenced how he was portrayed and sentenced. The actual shooter is out living his life, while Kevin has lost over 15 years — and faces the rest of his life in prison. 

This is not justice.

Kevin’s case reflects:

Racial bias in prosecution and courtroom language

Sentencing disparity that defies logic and fairness

A misuse of Florida’s felony murder rule

We are demanding:

A full review of Kevin Joseph’s case

Clemency or re-sentencing

Legal assistance from innocence and justice reform organizations

Kevin isn't perfect but he is one of the kindest people I have ever met and deserves freedom, fairness, and a second chance. Please sign and share this petition to help bring Kevin home.

 His brother recently passed away and he does not want to miss any more time with his family-seemingly just for running away while black

Thank You