My husband and friend for over 30 years is currently serving an excessively severe and disproportionate life sentence without the possibility of parole due to a conviction for second-degree assault. This conviction stemmed from a mutual fistfight that took place in his prison cell 21 years ago back in 2004 when he was just 25 years of age. Under Washington State's "three strikes" law, this incident was unfortunately classified as his third strike due to prior serious offenses.   

Mutual fights, especially within the high-stress and confrontational environment of a prison, are not uncommon, and typically do not result in a life sentence. The extreme penalty in this case raises concerns of disproportionate sentencing, ineffective legal representation, and a lack of due process.

 Not one eye witness was called to testify for my husband. No attempt was made to obtain video footage which could have shown a more complete picture of the events that transpired. Appeal after appeal resulting in this life sentence being upheld has left us feeling helpless, unheard, and without justice. My husband, like all individuals, deserves a fair chance to be heard and to present his side of the story.   We urge the judicial system to reassess this case with a focus on justice and fairness. This reevaluation must include a retrial in which all evidence, including potential video footage and witness testimonies, is thoroughly considered. A fair trial is not a privilege – it is a constitutional right.

 Disproportionate sentences not only affect the individuals involved but deeply impact their families and overall faith in the judicial process. We seek your support to ensure my husband receives the fair trial he deserves.

 Please sign this petition to call for a second look at this unjust life sentence and to uphold the integrity of our justice system.