In Spring 2024, a heartbreaking and devastating chain of events unfolded in Augusta County, Virginia, severely impacting the life of Michael Keys Sr. and his family. Michael’s child, like many children, became a victim of the unthinkable—sexual abuse. This tragedy reopened old wounds for Michael, who himself is a survivor of childhood abuse, igniting a storm of emotional turmoil and triggering a severe mental health breakdown.

In the throes of his despair, consumed by guilt for not being able to protect his child, Michael attempted to take his own life. Overwhelmed, he retreated to a field, ingesting a dangerous amount of drugs in a desperate cry for help. His wife, terrified and distraught, called 911 expecting to receive mental health support and assistance for her husband. Instead, she and Michael found themselves entangled in a nightmare of legal injustices.

Rather than deploying mental health professionals, the local sheriff's department dispatched untrained officers unprepared to manage a mental health crisis. Michael was treated not as a patient in need of urgent care, but as a criminal. To exacerbate the situation, the Commonwealth Attorney misrepresented facts in court, claiming Michael fabricated the abuse allegations—allegations supported by the arrest of the perpetrator twelve days after Michael’s own detainment.

This mishandling by authorities not only criminalizes a mental health crisis but also victimizes an innocent man, who sought help amidst a personal and family crisis. Michael’s deteriorating mental health should have been met with compassion, understanding, and appropriate care—not incarceration.

We urge the justice system of Augusta County to reassess the case of Michael Keys Sr, giving prominence to the substantiated facts. The Commonwealth Attorney’s actions, rooted in misinformation, must be reviewed. We call for the development and implementation of comprehensive mental health response protocols, ensuring that future calls for help are met with trained professionals capable of providing the necessary support.

By signing this petition, you are standing up for justice, for mental health, and for a family that did not receive the support they so desperately needed. Demand the immediate release of Michael Keys Sr and advocate for systemic change within our community’s approach to mental health crises. Join us in taking a stand against injustice and in support of those who suffer silently. Sign this petition to right this grievous wrong and help create a community where mental health is met with care, not prosecution.