We, the undersigned, strongly oppose the parole of Rachel Shoaf, one of the two convicted murderers responsible for the premeditated and brutal killing of Skylar Neese in 2012.

Rachel did not act out of impulse or coercion. She was fully aware of her actions when she joined Shelia Eddy in luring Skylar from her home, driving her to a remote area, and stabbing her over 50 times. The cruelty and betrayal involved in this crime are beyond comprehension.

While she eventually confessed, her admission was not an act of remorse. It was driven by obsessive fear that she might be discovered, and that she would lose the chance to appear as the “less guilty” party. Her confession was strategic—motivated by self-preservation, not conscience. There is no evidence of genuine rehabilitation, only manipulation.

Rachel Shoaf has displayed traits of emotional instability, detachment from empathy, and a capacity for cold-blooded violence. Her behavior is indicative of a dangerous personality, and there is serious concern that, if released, she could reoffend—especially if she were to enter another emotionally enmeshed relationship like the one she had with Shelia Eddy.

Skylar Neese was a kind, bright, and trusting teenager whose life was violently stolen. Her family has suffered an unimaginable loss. To grant parole to Rachel Shoaf would not only endanger the public but would also send a chilling message that such deliberate cruelty can be forgiven so soon.

We urge the West Virginia Parole Board to deny Rachel Shoaf’s parole in the name of justice, public safety, and out of respect for Skylar’s memory.

WHY THIS MATTERS :

It is crucial to point out that had this crime taken place in the state of Georgia — or other states with "Seven Deadly Sins" legislation — both Rachel Shoaf and Shelia Eddy would likely have faced far harsher sentences. 

If this brutal crime had taken place in a state like Georgia, both perpetrators would likely have faced much longer sentences — possibly 60 years to life — despite being minors. Georgia law allows severe sentencing for minors in extreme cases like this.

But because it happened in West Virginia, Rachel and Shelia are eligible for parole after just 10 and 15 years. This legal gap sends a dangerous message: that justice depends on geography, not the horror of the crime.

Skylar Neese and her family deserve better. We must not allow a loophole to become a second injustice.

Rachel Shoaf should not be released. Ever.

Please sign and share this petition to ensure Rachel Shoaf is never released. Skylar's life was stolen in an act of premeditated betrayal. Her voice deserves to be heard, and her family deserves lasting justice. Let’s make sure this never happens again.