Stop Tren Mallet from being released

Recent signers:
Dana Easterly and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

 

 

 

 

 

 

Abigail Simone was a vibrant young woman, just a couple months away from her 27th birthday, when her life was tragically cut short by an act of senseless violence. Stabbed to death by her boyfriend, Abigail's promising future was stolen, leaving a void in the hearts of her family and friends that can never be filled. Now, to add salt to the wound, her killer is eligible for early release, a prospect that not only undermines the severity of his crime but also threatens the safety and peace of the community.

The legal system is meant to deliver justice and protect the innocent. However, when murderers are given the opportunity to walk free well before serving their full sentences, it fundamentally questions the balance of justice. Abigail’s family and loved ones are haunted by the knowledge that the perpetrator of this heinous act could soon walk the streets again.

According to the National Institute of Justice, recidivism rates for violent offenders are alarmingly high, with more than half of released offenders being rearrested for a new crime within three years of release. Allowing Abigail's murderer to be released early not only poses a significant risk to public safety but also sends a dangerous message that such severe crimes might go unpunished.

We call upon our lawmakers, the justice department, and the parole board to reconsider the policy on early releases for violent offenders. A more stringent assessment process should be in place, prioritizing both the nature of the crime and the risk posed to society. This isn’t just about one case; it’s about ensuring that justice is served and that communities are protected from potential harm.

Your voice matters. Join us in demanding that Abigail’s story is not just another statistic. Stand with us to ensure that her memory is honored through meaningful action and enhanced safety for all.

Please sign this petition to prevent her murderer from being released early and to advocate for stricter parole policies for violent offenders. Let's take a stand for justice, for safety, and for Abigail.

 

709

Recent signers:
Dana Easterly and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

 

 

 

 

 

 

Abigail Simone was a vibrant young woman, just a couple months away from her 27th birthday, when her life was tragically cut short by an act of senseless violence. Stabbed to death by her boyfriend, Abigail's promising future was stolen, leaving a void in the hearts of her family and friends that can never be filled. Now, to add salt to the wound, her killer is eligible for early release, a prospect that not only undermines the severity of his crime but also threatens the safety and peace of the community.

The legal system is meant to deliver justice and protect the innocent. However, when murderers are given the opportunity to walk free well before serving their full sentences, it fundamentally questions the balance of justice. Abigail’s family and loved ones are haunted by the knowledge that the perpetrator of this heinous act could soon walk the streets again.

According to the National Institute of Justice, recidivism rates for violent offenders are alarmingly high, with more than half of released offenders being rearrested for a new crime within three years of release. Allowing Abigail's murderer to be released early not only poses a significant risk to public safety but also sends a dangerous message that such severe crimes might go unpunished.

We call upon our lawmakers, the justice department, and the parole board to reconsider the policy on early releases for violent offenders. A more stringent assessment process should be in place, prioritizing both the nature of the crime and the risk posed to society. This isn’t just about one case; it’s about ensuring that justice is served and that communities are protected from potential harm.

Your voice matters. Join us in demanding that Abigail’s story is not just another statistic. Stand with us to ensure that her memory is honored through meaningful action and enhanced safety for all.

Please sign this petition to prevent her murderer from being released early and to advocate for stricter parole policies for violent offenders. Let's take a stand for justice, for safety, and for Abigail.

 

The Decision Makers

Gary Westcott
Gary Westcott
Secretary, Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections (DPS&C)
Responded
I’m in receipt of your email and have reviewed the petition entitled, “Stop Tren Mallet from being released.” It appears the petition is based on a misunderstanding of the offender’s legal status and sentence. As the Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, I would like to address the incorrect information. In this matter, Mr. Mallet was found Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI) for the offense of Second Degree Murder on April 28, 2025, in Iberia Parish. Pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 654, when a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity is returned in a capital case, the court is required to commit the defendant to a proper state mental institution or to a private mental institution approved by the court for custody, care and treatment. In accordance with that mandate, Mr. Mallet was ordered to reside at the secure forensic facility located on the grounds of Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System in Jackson, Louisiana and this facility is operated by the Louisiana Department of Health. Mr. Mallet was subsequently placed on conditional release for an indefinite period of time and is supervised by our Department’s Division of Probation and Parole. His placement is not an “early release” from a sentence of incarceration; rather, it is a statutorily authorized conditional release following a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. Pursuant to Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 657.2, for good cause shown, placement in a conditional release program may be extended after five years in one-year increments at a yearly contradictory hearing with the state. Mr. Mallet is required to comply with all conditions outlined in Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 658, and any alleged violations are addressed by the sentencing court. The Committee on Parole has no authority over Mr. Mallet’s incarceration and his potential release would not be a parole decision driven by parole policy. It is strictly a matter for the sentencing judge in New Iberia Furthermore, any modification of conditions or discharge from conditional release may only be ordered by the sentencing court after appropriate legal proceedings. Accordingly, the offender’s status remains under the continuing jurisdiction and oversight of the court. Sincerely, Gary E. Westcott Secretary Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections Note: The Change.org Civic Engagement Team reaches out to decision makers to let them know about petitions in their community and to help facilitate engagement with supporters. The above was an email response we received regarding this petition.
Sheryl M. Ranatza
Sheryl M. Ranatza
Chair, Louisiana Committee on Parole
M. Michael Haik, III
M. Michael Haik, III
District Attorney, 16th Judicial District (Iberia/St. Martin/St. Mary)

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Petition created on February 5, 2026