Good afternoon to you all, Vance's Army and the supporters of this petition:

As we have continued to obtain signatures for this petition, WE need YOUr help, to get to our next goal of 200 signatures. Once we reach that goal, we will keep that momentum going until we are heard and we get an answer through change! Here is a little bit of history on the law, and what we are looking to do in order to get justice for our young King, Vance A. Mims III, and to prevent situations like this in the future. 

What Is Raise the Age?: 
Enacted on April 10, 2017, the Raise the Age law prevents 16- and 17-year-olds from being tried or housed in adult prisons. While this law was designed to protect youth from unjust sentencing, it currently fails to address extreme cases of violent crime committed by individuals younger than 16. In this case, the law has created a loophole that denies justice not just for Vance, but for his family, friends, and community.

What We’re Demanding:
We are calling for immediate legislative reform, including:

• Amendments to the Raise the Age law to allow violent offenders under 16 to be held fully accountable when their actions result in loss of life.
• Legislation holding parents or guardians accountable when their juvenile children commit violent crimes but face no meaningful consequences.
• A system that does not fail families of victims, but works to protect and restore our communities.

Why This Matters: 
This is more than one family’s tragedy it’s a public safety crisis. Our laws must evolve with the times. Vance A. Mims III’s life meant something, and his story must be the catalyst for real, lasting change. His name is now a foundation on which we build a movement a movement for justice, accountability, and safer communities. And YOU can take action NOW.

I am asking that you share this petition with any and everyone. We need to be loud, proud and taken seriously by those who ask for our votes. This may not be about politics, but the politicians can help us make the change we are seeking. With your help, your voice and your networks, we can make this a reality now. 

Thank you for your love and support.

the Family and Friends of Vance A. Mims III