Stand with the Ford family to protect victims’ rights and community safety

Recent signers:
Shelbee Gifford and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Stephanie Ford and her family from Mexico, Missouri, have been enduring a relentless struggle. As victims in the case 23AU-CR00754-01 – State v. Kyle Christopher Parrish, where Stephanie’s husband was tragically shot, they have continually faced violations of their legal rights. This ordeal has not only jeopardized the safety of their family but also the broader community's well-being.

The Ford family were not informed about the initial bond hearing, a vital step in the legal process that should never be overlooked. The justice system, which should serve and protect them, has repeatedly disregarded their rights and concerns. To worsen the situation, false statements were presented unchallenged by the defendant’s public defender in a recent hearing, further eroding their trust in the legal proceedings.

This petition is more than just a plea for justice for the Ford family. It represents a stand for all victims who find themselves silenced in the system. The emotional turmoil and fear Stephanie Ford’s family faces are shared by countless others who deserve to be heard and protected. Every victim should have the assurance that their voices will resonate in the courtroom, and that they will be treated with fairness and dignity under the law.

It's time to demand accountability and ensure that victims' rights are paramount in legal proceedings. By supporting this petition, you are not only advocating for the Ford family but also championing the rights of victims to be integral participants in the judicial process.

Join us in taking a stand. Sign this petition to protect victims’ rights and enhance the safety of our communities. Your support can make the difference in ensuring justice and safeguarding families like the Fords from further injustices. Together, let us build a legal system that truly values and upholds victims’ rights.

avatar of the starter
Stephanie SpillarsPetition Starter
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452

Recent signers:
Shelbee Gifford and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Stephanie Ford and her family from Mexico, Missouri, have been enduring a relentless struggle. As victims in the case 23AU-CR00754-01 – State v. Kyle Christopher Parrish, where Stephanie’s husband was tragically shot, they have continually faced violations of their legal rights. This ordeal has not only jeopardized the safety of their family but also the broader community's well-being.

The Ford family were not informed about the initial bond hearing, a vital step in the legal process that should never be overlooked. The justice system, which should serve and protect them, has repeatedly disregarded their rights and concerns. To worsen the situation, false statements were presented unchallenged by the defendant’s public defender in a recent hearing, further eroding their trust in the legal proceedings.

This petition is more than just a plea for justice for the Ford family. It represents a stand for all victims who find themselves silenced in the system. The emotional turmoil and fear Stephanie Ford’s family faces are shared by countless others who deserve to be heard and protected. Every victim should have the assurance that their voices will resonate in the courtroom, and that they will be treated with fairness and dignity under the law.

It's time to demand accountability and ensure that victims' rights are paramount in legal proceedings. By supporting this petition, you are not only advocating for the Ford family but also championing the rights of victims to be integral participants in the judicial process.

Join us in taking a stand. Sign this petition to protect victims’ rights and enhance the safety of our communities. Your support can make the difference in ensuring justice and safeguarding families like the Fords from further injustices. Together, let us build a legal system that truly values and upholds victims’ rights.

avatar of the starter
Stephanie SpillarsPetition Starter
Media inquiries

The Decision Makers

Jacob Shellabarger
Jacob Shellabarger
Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney
Responded
“The decision to grant bond in State v. Kyle Parrish was made by the Court, over the objections of both the State and the victims. When bond was first changed by the Court, this was on a defense motion without the State or the victim having notice. The victim was not notified of the hearing, and the State objected for that reason, and the Court continued to make a bond modification. At the second hearing, the victim was able to speak and share his perspective, supported by an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney and our Victim Advocate. At each bond hearing, the State argued that the defendant posed a danger to the victim, the victim’s family, and the community, and requested that he be held without bond. The Court considered those arguments and ruled otherwise. While this was not the outcome sought by the State or the victims, the Court’s ruling governs, and the defendant may be released only if he complies with the bond conditions ordered by the Court. Under our system of justice, decisions regarding conditions of release rest with the Court. Although the State does not represent victims individually, we take seriously our responsibility to stand with victims, to advocate for their safety, and to consider the broader safety of the community. With more than 400 active cases involving victims, I, my Victim Advocate, and the assistant prosecutors communicate compassionately, effectively, consistently, and thoroughly whenever possible – including in-person meetings and through any available medium. This case remains set for trial, and as with all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until the charges are proven beyond a reasonable doubt in court. -- Office of the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney”
Mike Kehoe
Mike Kehoe
Missouri Governor

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Petition created on March 10, 2026