My name is Mallory Rambo, and I’m asking for your support for clemency for my father, Robert Rambo. Nineteen years ago, after my mother was sexually assaulted, my dad made a tragic decision. He has taken full responsibility and lives with deep remorse.
My mother was not treated like a victim. She was questioned for hours before a rape kit, and later threatened with charges if she testified for my dad. Terrified of losing her children, she couldn’t take the stand. With an unprepared defense, the jury never heard her testimony. Although my dad had no prior felonies and guidelines recommended 13–22 years, the jury—without the full picture—imposed 43 years.

The following year, on March 28, 2007, my mom died at 40. I was 14, and my brother 10. We’ve worked hard to honor our parents, and through it all, our dad has guided us from prison—he’s a model inmate, a devoted father, and now a loving grandfather.

Because Virginia has no parole, clemency from the Governor is the only path to recognize his rehabilitation and bring him home. Please sign my petition and stand with us for mercy, fairness, and a second chance.

Thank you.

Letter to Abigail Spanberger:

Dear Governor Spanberger,
I respectfully request clemency for my father, Robert Rambo.

Nineteen years ago, in the aftermath of my mother’s sexual assault, my father made a tragic decision and received a 43‑year sentence—far above the guideline range. My mother died of cancer in 2007, and my three brothers and I grew up without either parent at home. Through these years, my father has taken full responsibility, shown deep remorse, and has been a model inmate who consistently mentors others.

Today our family has grown: my father now has five grandchildren who know him as “Paw‑Paw,” speak with him often, and long for his presence. Bringing him home would not only heal our family—it would provide real, daily support. We have a stable plan for reentry: my dad would live with us, and he could babysit regularly, cover school pickups, help with homework, and provide the kind of steady caregiving that working parents need. His hands‑on help would reduce childcare costs, create reliable coverage for illnesses and school breaks, and give our kids the loving grandparent they already look up to.
Because Virginia has no parole, clemency is the only way to recognize his rehabilitation and reunite our family. I am not asking you to excuse the past; I’m asking you to weigh his record of good conduct, his remorse, and the profound benefit his presence would have on five young children who need their grandfather and 4 adults that lost a part of their childhood along with their parents.

Thank you for your consideration. I can provide a detailed support plan and letters of endorsement at your request.
With respect,

Mallory Rambo