We are members of the New Jersey community. We are parents, caregivers, neighbors, and advocates, coming together to urge the New Jersey State Parole Board to deny parole for Maria Montalvo, who was convicted of the murders of her two young children. In 1994, Maria Montalvo murdered her 18-month-old daughter, Zoraida-Angelin Aponte, and her 28-month-old son, Rafael-Louis Aponte. On her way to her in-laws’ home in Monmouth County, she stopped to purchase approximately $3 worth of gasoline and had a gas can in the front seat of her vehicle. With both toddlers strapped into their car seats, Maria drove to her in-laws' residence, released gasoline inside the vehicle, and set it on fire while the children were restrained inside, resulting in their deaths. Family members witnessed the vehicle engulfed in flames. These actions demonstrate planning, intent, and deliberate harm inflicted on two defenseless children. A jury found Montalvo guilty of murder, rejecting claims that the acts were unintentional. She was sentenced to 100 years in prison with 60 years of parole ineligibility, reflecting the extreme severity of her crimes. Her parole was not expected to be considered until 2054. The recent decision by Governor Phil Murphy to grant clemency has deeply shaken our community. Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago condemned the decision as “the polar opposite of justice.” Many families and advocates believe this action undermines accountability and reopens profound trauma. This petition is not about vengeance, it is about accountability, community safety, and honoring victims. Allowing parole in a case involving intentional violence against young children undermines public trust in the justice system and diminishes the value of innocent lives. We urge the New Jersey State Parole Board to deny parole for Maria Montalvo. Please sign and share this petition. If you feel compelled, you may also contact the New Jersey State Parole Board to respectfully express your opposition to parole in this case. Contact Information: Mail: NJ State Parole Board, PO Box 862, Trenton, NJ 08625
Phone: 609-292-4257
Email: SPB-Public-Info-Office@spb.nj.gov 
Every voice matters. By speaking out, we honor the lives of Zoraida-Angelin and Rafael-Louis and affirm that justice for children must remain a priority.