We are calling for immediate attention and action in the case of Drevonna Richard (also known as Drevon), a Black transgender woman, advocate, and valued member of the Atlanta community. Drevonna is currently incarcerated at Fulton County Jail (Rice Street) under conditions that are both inhumane and unjust.

 

Drevonna is not facing any new criminal charges. She is being held solely for a technical violation of probation, due to her inability to provide a verified residential address while experiencing homelessness. This situation highlights a cruel reality in which individuals are punished not for wrongdoing, but for simply being unhoused and trying to survive.

 

Despite her circumstances, Drevonna has taken active steps toward stability. She has remained in contact with multiple nonprofit organizations, has worked closely with a case manager, and has maintained a verified mailing address. She has shown her commitment to compliance and self-improvement, yet she continues to be penalized due to a lack of accessible housing—an issue rooted in systemic inequality, not personal failure.

 

In addition to being wrongfully detained, Drevonna has endured deeply harmful conditions while in custody. She spent several days in isolation, with little to no access to mental health care or basic necessities. She has had to survive with limited access to hot water and very little food, raising serious concerns about the conditions at Fulton County Jail. Her safety is in jeopardy, and she is being targeted not only because she is transgender, but because she is surviving poverty.

 

We are urgently requesting the following:

 

Immediate legal representation to assist Drevonna in being placed on the court docket as soon as possible.
Release back to probation so she can continue accessing community services, including case management and housing assistance.
A comprehensive review of her original case, which involved an act of self-defense, and the circumstances that led to her probation.
Oversight and accountability regarding the treatment of transgender individuals at Fulton County Jail, and a commitment to safer, more affirming conditions of confinement.

 

 

Drevonna is a vocal leader and community advocate. She has previously participated in legislative efforts at the Georgia General Assembly, and she has dedicated her time to fighting for justice and equity. She deserves that same justice in return.

 

We urge Fulton County leadership, legal advocates, public defenders, and community allies to come together and act swiftly on Drevonna’s behalf. She needs support—not punishment—for being trans, unhoused, and resilient.

 

Her freedom is urgent. Her safety is non-negotiable. Her life matters.