As a Nebraska resident, a parent, and a member of a small community in Nebraska, I am heartbroken and outraged by the repeated pattern of violent domestic offenders being released—only to harm again.

Recently, in our own state, a man with a history of serious charges, including second-degree assault and terroristic threats against his ex-partner, was released on bond. Within weeks, he found her again, shot and killed another innocent individual that was in her presence, kidnapped her, assaulted her, and ultimately tried to take his own life (update: he has passed away). This is not an isolated incident. It is part of a deeply troubling pattern.

How many times does this need to happen before we take stronger action?

One of the most critical gaps in our justice system exists between arrest and trial—the period when victims are most vulnerable. Offenders charged with violent domestic crimes are often granted bond, allowing them to walk free mere hours or days after an arrest. These individuals have not yet faced trial, but their victims are already living in fear, constantly forced to relocate, hide, and look over their shoulders. Bond should never be an option for violent offenders who have shown a willingness to harm or threaten another person’s life. Parole is only granted after a conviction—but release on bond often happens before guilt is even determined, and the risk to victims during this time is immense.

Our laws must reflect what survivors already know: the danger doesn’t start after conviction; it starts the moment the abuser is arrested and seeks release. The system must prioritize safety by keeping dangerous individuals detained until their cases are resolved, especially when credible threats, prior violence, or weapons are involved.

Victims of domestic violence should not have to live in fear that their abuser will be released and come back to finish what they started. Families deserve to feel safe. Our system should prioritize protection—not second chances for those who have demonstrated a high risk of repeated violence.

We are calling on Nebraska lawmakers and the Nebraska Board of Parole to take immediate action to strengthen protections for victims by:

-Requiring stricter parole denial standards for individuals convicted of violent domestic crimes, including assault, terroristic threats, kidnapping, and any offenses involving the use or possession of weapons

-Restricting or denying bond for defendants charged with violent domestic-related felonies or any crimes involving serious bodily harm, weapons, or credible threats against victims

-Mandating comprehensive, evidence-based risk assessments before parole or pre-trial release is considered, with specific evaluation of weapon access and past use of violence

-Enhancing penalties and restrictions for offenders who violate protection orders, use firearms or other deadly weapons in domestic incidents, or have repeat offenses

-Requiring electronic monitoring or tracking devices—similar to those used in house arrest—for high-risk domestic violence offenders granted parole or any form of supervised release, allowing authorities to track their movements and keep victims informed

-Prioritizing victim safety in all release decisions, including mandatory notification to victims before an offender’s release on bond, parole approval, or any supervised release

This is not about eliminating second chances—it is about recognizing clear patterns of dangerous behavior and preventing further tragedy. The fact that victims are not even notified when their abusers are released is unacceptable and must change.

We cannot continue to wait until lives are lost to act.

Sign this petition to demand stronger protections for victims and real accountability for repeat domestic violence offenders in Nebraska.

Enough is enough.