Justice for Angel Monae Bonaparte: A Call for Mercy and Second Chances

We, the undersigned, are calling for justice, mercy, and compassion in the case of Angel Monae Bonaparte, a 23-year-old first-time offender who was sentenced to 12 years in prison by Judge Richard Wallerstein in Henrico County Circuit Court for felony hit and run.

Who Is Angel?

Angel is a hardworking, caring young woman who had been employed at the U.S. Postal Service for four years alongside her mother, who has worked there for nearly a decade. The two are known and loved in their community for their reliability, kindness, and commitment to helping others. Angel has no prior criminal history and had been living a stable and productive life before this incident.

What Happened

The case arose from a wrongful towing incident by J&R Towing, a company with a well-documented reputation for predatory towing practices — often removing cars that are properly permitted.

While babysitting her friend’s child, Angel’s vehicle was towed twice in one week from the apartment complex where she was parked with a valid parking permit. When she went to retrieve her car, she was told to pay $200 in cash. Angel only had $150 at the time and provided proof of her permit, yet the tow operator refused to release her car.

Frustrated, scared, and needing her vehicle for work, Angel got in her car to leave. The lot operator stepped in front of the vehicle, and as she drove away, he was struck — captured on video as going over the hood. Angel briefly stopped but, believing he was not seriously injured, she drove away.

A Harsh and Unfair Sentence

Angel’s court-appointed attorney, William Viverette, advised her to plead no contest and “throw herself under the mercy of the court.” However, he failed to present critical evidence of her good character, employment record, and community standing. Despite her remorse and lack of criminal history, the court imposed a 12-year prison sentence, a punishment far exceeding what justice and compassion should demand in this case.

A Family and Community in Pain

Angel’s family has been devastated. Her 17-year-old brother, Sir Paul Cheeks, a student at Varina High School, was recently accepted to West Virginia University on a football scholarship — a milestone the family should be celebrating together. Instead, they are struggling to cope with Angel’s absence and the overwhelming harshness of this sentence.

The community — including friends, neighbors, and colleagues — stands united in support of Angel and her family. They know her as a kindhearted, responsible young woman whose mistake does not define her worth or her future.

Our Call to Action

We are asking for a sentence reduction or reconsideration in Angel Monae Bonaparte’s case. Her punishment does not reflect the intent of justice, especially for a first-time offender who poses no threat to public safety.

Angel deserves the opportunity to continue her life as a working, contributing member of society. She has learned from this tragedy, expressed deep remorse, and has a loving, supportive community ready to help her rebuild.

Justice Should Heal — Not Destroy

We urge the Henrico County Circuit Court, the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and all relevant state officials to review this case with compassion, fairness, and humanity. One moment of frustration should not erase years of hard work, dedication, and potential for good.

Please join us in demanding justice and mercy for Angel Monae Bonaparte.

Sign and share this petition to help bring Angel home to her family, her job, and her future.