My husband was wrongly convicted of aggravated assault. Instead of receiving the possibility of commutation for good behavior, he is forced to serve 85% of a 10-year sentence. This isn't about absolving crimes but about offering redemptive avenues for those who demonstrate behavioural transformation and commitment to rehabilitation within South Dakota penitentiaries.

Currently, South Dakota is one of the few states that doesn't offer "earned release credits," also called "good time," for violent offenders. This policy puts individuals, families, and sustainable reintegration at risk, creating a cycle of crime without the hope of redemption. As per the National Conference of State Legislatures, providing prisoners with the opportunity to earn release for good behavior decreases prison violence, improves offender behavior, and drives participation in prison programs designed to reduce recidivism (NCSL, 2015).

Successfully reintegrated inmates save the state money, make our communities safer, and are less likely to reoffend. With the U.S. having the highest incarceration rate globally, and the yearly cost per inmate in South Dakota being nearly $32,000 (Vera Institute of Justice, 2012), the potential economic and social benefits warrant serious consideration.

We implore the relevant authorities to reassess the policies that exclude serious offenders from the opportunity to demonstrate reform. We believe in a system that can be tough on crime, while still fostering a culture of reform and rehabilitation.

You can support us by signing this petition; give convicted violent offenders a fair chance at change and a return to productive society.