Hi there, I'm Natalie from Social Busy Bee, your partner in the exciting world of Instagram growth. I've discovered something phenomenal for skyrocketing your Instagram popularity and I'm thrilled to share it with you! Social Growth Engine introduces a groundbreaking service that takes your Instagram engagement to new heights. It's effortless: - Zero in on producing unforgettable content. - Extremely budget-friendly at a mere $36/month. - Completely safe (no password needed), incredibly powerful, and Instagram's best friend. I've experienced remarkable results firsthand, and I'm sure you will too! Amplify your Instagram presence right now: http://get.socialbuzzzy.com/instagram_booster Best wishes, Natalie at Social Busy Bee"

Virginians want to live in a safe State. https://youtu.be/zaRV1ShBrtg?si=VhVY93a6Ttfy1Fmc

Hi I am writing to you on behalf of The Well Connection UK, a media and publishing company. We could easily get virginia.gov featured in various publications such as magazines, online blogs and news sites. This would undoubtedly help virginia.gov with publicity, reputation, domain authority and organic search engine rankings. We have a wide range of options including completely free collaborations, sponsored posts, guest posts and banner ads. If this sounds of interest, please reach out to the senior business development manager, Anita at info@thewellconnection.co.uk and whatsapp +447395206515 (GMT) Kind regards Clifton Junior Outreach Assistant

I am not a victim of crime. I am not a relative of an incarcerated person. I AM a constituent who is concerned about justice in our state. I believe that SB427 provides this justice. This is not about releasing dangerous individuals into society. This bill is about considering the cases of those who have served a reasonable amount of their sentence and while incarcerated have become individuals that will be contributing members of society. Please vote yes for bill SB427

I have a loved one that’s been incarcerated for 20 years, well above the 7 year sentencing guideline. When he was incarcerated his recidivism score was a 27 and as of this past week it’s a negative 2. He hold multiple certificates, and achievements, completing programs remaining charge free and is a model worker. My loved one has changed. I also lost my husband when he was killed 2 years ago by a supposed friend he was helping. I had to notify my 18yr old son who had just left for USMC bootcamp via Red Cross, I had to call my daughter while visiting Richmond who graduated magma cum laude from Radford in political science with a minor in Arabic . Our lives forever changed, however my support for this bill is because it allows individual progress, my loved one is not the same as the person who killed my husband, he can stand on his own reformation. This bill isn’t letting out monsters, it’s providing relief to those who have rehabilitated. I had to trust the courts to get a first degree murder conviction and I am trusting them again to look at the individual petitions and merit. All crimes are not the same, all people are not the same and all cases and crimes especially from 20 years ago are not the same. Please pass this bill in order to restore families, restore inequities, and in some cases restore justice. I am a victim that supports SB427. Thank you

Good Morning, As a member of the community and a business owner, I believe wholeheartedly that the committee has the ability to set aside any funding needed for the passing of SB 427. There is a very limited amount of money needed for this bill. In fact, as a tax payer I would much rather see my tax dollars going to the potential of reformed individuals being released. To be clear, the cost of an individual remaining incarcerated each year is a heavy financial burden for tax payers. If an individual has been reformed, having the opportunity to have them released can save hundreds of thousands of tax payers dollars per reformed individual. It is my hope that the cost of housing inmates and the cost of their medical bills as they age is considered during the appropriations meeting.

Please allow this bill to pass and stop solitary confinement. Solitary confinement has no place in modern history. As someone with a psych background, we have known since the 80s that solitary confinement harms mental health. For a healthy person, it can hurt mental health. For a person with significant mental health challenges, they can begin to exhibit psychotic features. There is no benefit to solitary confinement, except to further harass and intimidate prisoners. In Prince William-Manassas Regional Adult Detention Center, there is a whole POD of people in solitary, who have not even been convicted as a crime. Some of these prisoners have been in solitary for a year or longer. Why would there ever be a need to subject any human to this, let alone prisoners who are not convicted? Virginia in particular is using solitary as a way to harass and intimidate prisoners. Please allow this bill to pass. Hopefully many more of our detained can exit incarceration as whole human beings; instead of further traumatized ones who now have mental health issues and a larger burden of trauma because of solitary.

I support this bill because people work hard to better themselves and second look gives them a chance. Second look is not about releasing a bunch of violent offenders into the community it's about carefully taking a look at specific ones that worked hard over decades to better themselves and possibly could be an asset to society rather than a drain on taxpayers dollars.

I disagree with some aspects of SB427, but agree with others. Please keep the victim-veto and prosecutor-veto provisions to minimize the recidivism rate of released offenders and protect public safety. The Daily Caller reported in February 2023 that 28 of the first 135 offenders released under DC's second-look law had already been arrested again (http://tinyurl.com/2a6cdm3y). That's a recidivism rate of over 20%. Without the prosecutor-veto provisions in this bill, the recidivism rate under this bill would be even higher than that, because this bill, unlike DC's second look law, doesn't require proof that an inmate "is not a danger to the safety of any person or the community" before the inmate can be released, as DC's law does. No such safeguard is in this bill. The criteria for release need to be expanded to include those that take into account the need for continued incarceration. Under the bill's current phrasing, almost all of the factors the bill tells judges to consider are the kind criminal defense lawyers cite for reduced sentences, and virtually none of them are the reasons courts give for imposing long sentences, like the need for deterrence or to make the penalty fit the crime. Overly indulgent criteria for release will harm public safety, if inmates are routinely released under this bill. DC's law second-look law already routinely releases inmates that pose a risk of reoffending. The Washington Post reported last year that four-fifths of inmates seeking release under it were released (135 of 164 petitioners). Most state inmates nationally reoffend after being released, including those over the age of 40. (See Bureau of Justice Statistics, “Recidivism of Prisoners in 24 States Released in 2008: A 10-Year Follow-Up Period (2008-2018)” (Sept. 2021), Table 4)). Also, please exclude Class 1 offenders -- the worst murderers, like serial killers or child killers -- from being released. Such offenders are just too dangerous to release. If an inmate killed children there may be no victim left alive to object to their release (their parents may die of old age by the time the offender petitions for release). As a comment to a similar House bill pointed out, releasing Class 1 felons would violate "assurances made to victims in the past. It would allow serial killers and the worst murderers to be released, those who committed Class 1 felonies. When the death penalty was abolished, legislators said, don't worry, the worst killers will get life without parole instead." But under this bill, those killers might eventually be released.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be heard today. I stand before you not only as an advocate for criminal justice reform but as the voice of countless individuals who, like my husband, entered the criminal justice system as juveniles. At the age of 15, one's brain is not fully developed, and the capacity to comprehend the gravity of one's actions is limited. My husband, now incarcerated for nearly two decades, is a testament to the transformative power of rehabilitation. He has utilized every available program, earned his GED, and embarked on a journey of education within the prison walls. The Second Look Law, which I implore you to consider, is not a mere plea for clemency. It is an appeal for justice that acknowledges the evolution, growth, and redemption that can occur over time. The data supports this proposition; the recidivism rate for juvenile lifers granted a second chance is less than 2%. These individuals, having spent nearly two decades behind bars, have the potential to reintegrate into society as productive, contributing members. By allowing them a second look after 15 years, we enable judges to assess their prison record, accomplishments, and post-incarceration history. This process ensures a fair evaluation of their transformation and the possibility of a reduced sentence. The impact of second chances extends far beyond the individual. Reintegration into society means families can be made whole again. Mothers and fathers, who were once separated from their children, get the chance to rebuild relationships and play active roles in their children's lives. It is a chance to mend the fabric of families torn apart by the consequences of youthful mistakes. Furthermore, the positive effects ripple through our communities. A family made whole is a family less likely to rely on social services and more likely to contribute positively to the community. A second chance, earned through years of reflection and growth, results in individuals returning to society not as threats but as assets—equipped with valuable experiences that can be shared to benefit others. In supporting the Second Look Law, we endorse not only the principle of rehabilitation but also the belief in the potential for redemption. Let us be a society that acknowledges the capacity for change, that recognizes the difference between the impulsive actions of youth and the maturation that occurs over decades of incarceration. I urge you to consider the Second Look Law not as a compromise of justice but as an affirmation of the transformative power inherent in every individual, even those who entered the system as juveniles. Together, we can shape a more compassionate and equitable criminal justice system—one that values redemption, second chances, and the reunification of families. Thank you for your time and consideration.

We all know that the prosecutor or victims is not trying to give 2nd chances or a fair chance and Shouldnt have the right to deny petitions, of people whose been incarcerated for 20,30,40 plus years. Judge's should be able to use their discretion on when enough time is enough! Please pass Second look and provide a second chance without amendments! Respectfully submitted, udges should hbe able to use there discretion on when enough time is enough. Please pass second look And provide a second chance without amendment s

Please change SB427 to exclude Class 1 felons -- the worst murderers such as serial killers and premeditated killers of young children -- from release. Such offenders are just too dangerous to release. If an inmate killed children there may be no victim left alive to object to their release (and their parents may be dead by the time the offender petitions for release, of old age). As a past comment to a similar House bill noted, releasing Class 1 felons would violate "assurances made to victims in the past. It would allow serial killers and the worst murderers to be released, those who committed Class 1 felonies. When the death penalty was abolished, legislators said, don't worry, the worst killers will get life without parole instead. But now, those killers [could] eventually be released." Please keep the victim-veto and prosecutor-veto provisions of the bill. If they are removed, the bill would endanger public safety. Maryland has nearly twice Virginia's violent crime rate, because it releases inmates earlier. A lot of inmates reoffend and commit more crimes after being released, yet the bill doesn't contain any provision requiring judges to find that an inmate is not a threat to public safety "or any person" -- the way DC's second look law does. The federal Bureau of Justice Statistics reported that 81.9% of all state prisoners released in 2008 by 24 states were subsequently arrested by 2018, including 74.5% of those 40 or older at the time of their release. (See Bureau of Justice Statistics, “Recidivism of Prisoners in 24 States Released in 2008: A 10-Year Follow-Up Period (2008-2018)” (Sept. 2021), Table 4). Even after a decade in prison, criminals are typically arrested yet again after being released from prison. 57.5% of federal inmates imprisoned for violence for ten years or more were arrested yet again after being released, according to a February 2022 report from the U.S. Sentencing Commission. (See Recidivism of Federal Violent Offenders Released in 2010, page 33). The criteria the bill tells judges to consider in whether to release an inmate don't include things like the need to deter crimes, the need to make the punishment fit the crime, even though the Supreme Court says courts can consider factors like deterrence, retribution, and proportionality in sentencing. Letting inmates out tends to increase crime. After El Salvador increased its incarceration, its murder rate and violent crime rate fell enormously, as the Wall Street Journal and other papers have reported.

I am in support of SB427 - “Second Look” - WITHOUT recent amendments. A bill where the Commonwealth Attorney, Judges, and victims play a role in equal parts regarding whether a petition will move forward. It is also vital to acknowledge the petitioner, many who have been over sentenced, and the documented progress they have made to become productive members of society. As humans we are bigger than our worst mistake and the justice system should afford the opportunity for redemption for those who meet the criteria set before them.

I support the second look! Vote YES

Please amend SB427 to exclude Class 1 felons -- the worst murderers such as serial killers and premeditated killers of young children -- from release. They are too dangerous to release. If a murderer killed children there may be no victim left alive to object to their release (and their parents may be dead, too, of old age). As a past comment to a similar House bill noted, releasing Class 1 felons would violate "assurances made to victims in the past. It would allow serial killers and the worst murderers to be released, those who committed Class 1 felonies. When the death penalty was abolished, legislators said, don't worry, the worst killers will get life without parole instead. But now, those killers [could] eventually be released." Please keep the victim-veto and prosecutor-veto provisions of the bill. If they are removed, the bill would definitely harm public safety -- read the comment of Samper, and the statistics and expert cited in it.

Passing this bill will give those who have shown the family and system that rehabilitation does work. My brother was involved in a vehicle accident that claimed the life of our neighborhood friend, but convicted of 2nd degree Murder and sentenced to 45 years and has been serving 23 at Nottoway Correctional Center. During his time he has done nothing but great things. (letter attached) Due to the charge of his crime, lack of representation and social status, he has been denied earned sentenced credits, parole, or the second look due to the incorrect charge of his crime. This bill is definitely warranted, but with heavy discretion. At what point do the system really show that they support second chance under the stipulations that they are currently using under this proposed bill? What stipulations are their for people who have been wrongly convicted under the wrong penial code with a bias prosecutor? If the class and the charge is wrong, then they will not have a chance of freedom or showing that they have earned a second chance. With the passing of this bill many will be helped, but some will still be overlooked due to terms. There should be a double standard of criteria set for the judges and the prosecutor in the determining factors for denial or approval. In this way there will be minimum personal feelings and bias involved. I AM FOR SB427 with CHANGE.

And say that you support SB427 by patron Senator deeds, and you would like the bill to be fair , for a second chance for everyone. Also state judges should have the descrection. Express that there is no way that someone can get a second look when it lies in the hands of the victim and prosecutor. I pray and hope this bill gets passed, because it would give alot of people a 2nd chance that deserves so.

I am in favor of the SB427. The Second Chance bill I hope would be fair to everyone. Judges should have the discretion of making a ruling. There is no way for someone to get a second chance when it lies in the hands of the Prosecutor and the Victim/Victims family. Many people that is incarcerated have turned their live around. Give them a chance to show that they can be a functioning Adult in today’s Society. Thank you

I fully support second chances as a former corrections officer. I do not support the modifications. I do not support the prosecutors having a say weither or not the case can be heard. The judge is given a duty and trusted in the court system to make judgements based on facts and younare taking that from the judge if you allow the victims or prosecutors to make the first decision. Not all victims have forgiven and not all prosecutors believe in redemption. These men and women have worked hard ,based on the recidivism rates in VA, to change who they are compared to who they were, give them that chance without the bias.

I support SB505. A "Second Look" is just that, a reconsideration. The inmate would have to meet criteria to be considered and even then it's not guaranteed. If we believe that incarceration has the potential to change people, this bill would give those who have demonstrated change a chance to be productive instead of a continuing cost to the public.

Please amend the bill to exclude Class 1 felons -- the worst murderers -- who are too dangerous to release. If a murderer killed children there may be no victim left alive to object to their release. As a past comment to a similar House bill noted, such releases would violate "assurances made to victims in the past. It would allow serial killers and the worst murderers to be released, those who committed Class 1 felonies. When the death penalty was abolished, legislators said, don't worry, the worst killers will get life without parole instead. But now, those killers [could] eventually be released if they convince a judge they are sorry and have a relatively clean prison discipline record. This is one of those soft-on-crime policies that sends a bad message to criminals. Washington, DC has ... 'second look' legislation. Washington DC's murder rate went up 36% in 2023, and carjackings doubled in 2023, due to its soft-on-crime policies, as journalists have reported: https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2024/01/04/carjacking-rings-arrests-2023. Please don't bring those soft-on-crime policies like second-look to Virginia. HB834 is even worse than DC's second-look law because it applies to offenders regardless of age, unlike in DC, where offenders only get out if they committed their crime before they turned 25. [Unlike DC's law this bill] doesn't require proof that an inmate 'is not a danger to the safety of any person or the community' before the inmate can be released, as DC's law does. Even with that requirement, 28 of the first 135 offenders released under DC's law had been arrested again by the beginning of 2023, reported the Daily Caller (http://tinyurl.com/2a6cdm3y). The criteria for release need to be tightened up. Right now, almost all of the factors the bill tells judges to consider are the kind criminal defense lawyers cite for reduced sentences, and virtually none of them are the reasons courts give for imposing long sentences, like the need for deterrence or to make the penalty fit the crime. Overly indulgent criteria for release will harm public safety, if inmates are routinely released under this bill. DC's law already routinely releases inmates. The Washington Post reported last year that four-fifths of inmates seeking release under it were released (135 of 164 petitioners). The lobbyists pushing second-look legislation make false claims about inmates' recidivism rates after being released. As criminal-justice expert Rafael Mangual of the Manhattan Institute pointed out in response to a lobbyist for this bill, 'As you can see from this BJS recidivism report, nearly 80% of offenders aged 40-54 are rearrested at least once after their release from prison. For those aged 55-64, that number is 56.1%, and 40.1% for those aged 65 and over.' See https://twitter.com/Rafa_Mangual/status/1747647647932887436 . Inmates frequently commit more crimes after being released from prison, even after they have served a decade or more in prison, so they remain dangerous. 57.5% of federal inmates imprisoned for violence for ten years or more were arrested again after being released. (See U.S. Sentencing Commission, 'Recidivism of Federal Violent Offenders Released in 2010,' pg. 33 (Feb. 2022)). This law will also be very painful for victims of crime, when inmates who raped them or murdered their child petition for release. The suffering of rape victims due to these laws is chronicled by the Washington Post's Petula Dvorak."

My name is Delettre Copeland Abdul-Aziz, and I support SB427 second look WITHOUT any changes! I’ve always been taught that the sole purpose of having a justice system is to allow people to be treated impartial and fair. I’ve also been taught that, you treat others the way that you would like to be treated! If an emotionally scarred victim from a past trauma is given the power to determine if their culprit should be given the opportunity for a second look, they would not look at it objectively. They would be going strictly off irrational and emotional thoughts of the crime, and would be incapable of being unbiased about the situation, as some victims never heal from their trauma! My husband was a 24 year old young with a 9th grade education when he committed his crime that led him to being incarcerated! He has served 31 years in VADOC prisons, and yet he has only one infraction during the duration of his sentence. He has completed many classes, some required, others not. He has never failed a drug test and has done exceptionally well on all of his yearly assessments. In closing please remember this is only an opportunity to petition for a second look, and it is only given to the ones who have proven a change. Thank you for your time.

I support this bill 100%. Every person deserves a second chance. Every person deserves a chance at parole, at home confinement, ankle monitor, or probation. We need this. We need parole brought back and mandatory parole hearings. Families of inmates are just as imprisoned as the inmates are. Millions of inmates are incarcerated for long periods of time, making it a cruel and aggregious, inhumae punishment for crimes they didn't committ or guilt by association. Or sentenced to many years for very minor crimes. I sincerely hope you will also support this bill. Sincerely Sally Epps

Hello, My name is Ashley Cordova Dugger, and I am writing to express my strong support for Second Look legislation, SB427, which addresses the petition for modification of a sentence; eligibility, and procedures. The implementation of a Second Look law is crucial as it allows judges to reassess the sentences of individuals with lengthy prison terms, evaluating whether they have earned the opportunity for release. Beyond its potential to strengthen Virginia's economy and labor force, a Second Look law provides incarcerated individuals with an incentive to take accountability for their actions during their period of incarceration. My advocacy for Second Look legislation is deeply personal; my husband is among those who have dedicated themselves to rehabilitation. It is unjust for individuals who have genuinely worked towards self-improvement to face a lifetime of punishment for their past mistakes. Excessive sentences not only fail to contribute to safer communities but also inflict lasting devastation on the families and communities of those who are incarcerated, resulting in profound social and economic consequences. Unfortunately, our family is among those directly affected by these repercussions. Passing SB427 is a pivotal step towards a more equitable and just system. It has the potential to safely reduce the number of individuals serving counterproductive sentences, simultaneously empowering and protecting victims of crime without subjecting them to further trauma. Additionally, it can result in substantial cost savings for taxpayers, redirecting funds towards more effective and humane approaches to criminal justice. I urge you to support SB427 contributing to the movement against mass incarceration, particularly its disproportionate impact on minority communities. By doing so, we can collectively work towards creating a fairer and more compassionate legal system that serves the goals of public safety while mitigating the negative impacts associated with mass incarceration. Sincerely, Ashley Cordova Dugger

I suppirt SB427 for a variety of reasons and ask please that you have compassion toward those who have oaid back their debts to society and vote yes for this bill. Many thanks.

My name is milva and I support SB 427 Second Look by parton Deeds without the amendments giving the prosecutor and victim all the power to deny a petition. That is not a second look or second chance for someone who's been locked down 10 15 20 30 40 years. We all know that no victim or prosecutor will ever agree to a fair chance so the judges should have the discretion. How much time is enough? Please pass second look and provide a second chance without amendments. Thank You. A close friend of mines has been incarcerated since 17 years old and has served 13 years so far , he hasn’t been in any trouble . he is a great man and deserves a second chance at life. he is always there for everyone , he has kids that he speaks with daily and tells them to stay out of trouble he is trying to be the person he wish he had in his life at that age instead of people pushing him to do and be bad .. but even thru everything he has gone thru and all this time incarcerated he is still so positive, so caring , please ! Even with the cos if they need him he is there for them always working trying to go to school and just staying out of trouble , he helped other inmates stay out of trouble . Always smiling , laughing.. he deserves a second chance , his kids deserve their father home !

I support the second look bill. My husband has been incarcerated for nearly 21 years, he was a young adult at the time he received his sentance. I have seen many others with the same or worse charges even, that have received less time then he did. Since he has been in he has completed many programs and courses to become a better man, a better husband and father. We need him home more than anything in this world. Voting yes to this bill is a chance for those whom have served a lengthy sentance already to have a judge go back over and potentially give them that second chance they have been needing. Just because someone had made a mistake especially early in their life doesn't mean that their entire life should he taken away. There are many people that walk around put here daily that may have done some of these same things, but just because they hadn't been caught, society doesn't see that or look at them any differently. Everyone makes bad choices in life, and not everyone's choices will be the same. I'm just asking you to PLEASE vote YES on the second look. There are plenty that deserve this, the chance to be heard again, possible sentance reduction, revising or releasal. Regardless all cases will still have to be heard in front of a judge. There are so many families that could benefit greatly from having their loved one back home, I know we sure could! If you can just look in your heart to give us this chance. VOTE YES!!

In its original form, this was a great bill and opportunity for the Commonwealth to deal with mass incarceration. Speaking as an advocate for reform and also as sexual assault victim, the amendment with the victim veto should not be included. It can have disastrous unintended consequences, including revictimization. As a survivor who spent years healing what was done to me, I hope that the man who raped me, heals his own trauma and finds redemption and rehabilitation, but I should not be asked to stand in judgment of that redemption, forcing me to relive what I experienced. I strongly urge lawmakers to reconsider the amendment.

The sole purpose of having a justice system is that people are treated impartially and fair. If you give a victim, who is emotionally scarred from their own trauma the power to determine if their culprit should be given the opportunity for a second look, they would not look at it objectively, they would be going strictly off irrational and emotional thoughts of the trauma and would be incapable to be unbiased in the situation as some victims never heal. In closing my husband was a 17-year-old boy could not read or write had a 4th grade education he has now served 26 years and is in his last semester of college. He has had no major infractions, he has never failed a drug test and is a Mentor to others . Please remember this is only an opportunity to petition for a 2nd look and it is only given to the ones who have actually proven that they have changed . Thank You

Rehabilitation is a choice, if the inmates record shows they are doing what is needed for rehabilitation,working going to school staying charge free. What does it take, how long must one endure the punishment of slavery? Please do the right thing and support SB 427without ammendments Lorrene Crowell

I am a veteran of the United States Army and an advocate for justice through human transformation and change. Through my formal education, personal experience and decade long career in social work I have seen the human capacity for positive change. Victims and perpetrators of crime are both impacted and influenced by unseen societal factors that need to be examined and addressed. Most of our prison population suffer from mental illness and a variety of adverse childhood experiences. There is no doubt that crime needs to be punished and that society needs protection from unremorseful offenders. However second look gives only those who have served substantial amounts of time a chance to be judged again for who they are today and not what they did in the past. As a veteran and proud servant of this country we stand for Justice, we have forgiven many, given second chances and seen the beauty and success in life that results from doing so. We have also needed that same mercy to be bestowed upon us all. What good does it do to punish people forever? It does not right the wrong or bring loved ones back. We live in a world where people sometimes do awful things and after they are punished we expect them to change. Punishment is to change/ deter a behavior but not to throw away a human being! We all have done things we are not proud of and when we reflect honestly on our mistakes may even wonder why we did such things .. but life is forgiving as should be humans. People who have served long sentences and who have been rehabilitated despite the harsh and punitive nature of prison, have the lowest re-offense rates. We can never change the past but we can look forward to the future and make changes to ensure justice as well as liberty for all. I vote yes on second look because we all deserve the opportunity to prove we can change for the better.

I support second look

As the wife and childhood friend of Donte' Lamar Jones I wish to testify that this man has used his extreme remorse for the pain that his actions as a 17 year old youth to transform into a mature, honest, disciplined, peaceful, teacher, author, educator and peer mentor. He has been incarcerated for almost 24 years, longer than he was even free and has done everything in his power to maintain a positive influence for those around him. He can never change what he did as a troubled teen but this 41 year old man shows that redemption is possible by positively changing the lives of many of the offenders around him and will do the same in society. By becoming a deterrent to crimes and helping others to be peaceful law abusing citizens he is giving back in the only way he can. The pain that families and victims of violence experience is very real and justice must be served, but to torture and imprison people forever when they have proven they have changed decades later is not humane. Our very Creator is one of justice and also mercy and forgiveness. Nobody wants to be punished forever for the mistakes they made as children and teens. People should be judged based on who they are today and how they can positively impact their communities today and not on their worst mistakes decades ago. Prison is supposed to punish, but also reform and correct. When do we allow reformed, kind, peaceful , knowledgeable, gentle, remorseful, redeemed individuals who have served extremely long sentences another chance to right their wrongs in society that they've impacted? How much is enough punishment? Do we all not deserve mercy and second chances? Can any amount of torture and punishment being back our loved ones or change what was done? How do we move forward as a society to promote health and peace and true healing when these situations arise. Allowing someone like Donte' Lamar Jones to have a second chance would not only bring a strong man back home to his family where he can teach sons and daughters the right way to live but warn other wayward teenagers of the tragedy that awaits a life of crime and violence. He is a source of strength and encouragement to our family and the community now through his writings and talks and will only give life back to society. Second look is only for very specific individuals and would allow God to be the judge as mercy and forgiveness are His principles.

In finding courage in things that matter, some might consider me fearless yet I’ve always tried to follow as I was raised to doing what’s right. As a going on 10-year resident of Virginia, and an individual that has committed myself to living an exemplary life. And, in committing my career to socioeconomic research to apply informed decisions across my career journey, to finding myself overseas working in a conflict war zone in Afghanistan I’d like to speak in support of the Second Look Bill. I’m grateful to have my life not only from those early career experiences. But, from being in an abusive relationship with someone I’d never would be so unwilling in taking accountability despite finding myself navigating my trauma to be able to firmly support speak on this. In my worst moments “I was asked by a prosecutor what do I want to happen? “ I was confused by the question because I believed it was the legal system that’s supposed to determine this. What I didn’t want to happen I was brought no choice, and it was wrong I was being punished for his actions. Yet, from. My logical perspective was he was a good father, and not going to recieve improvement in jail. Jail doesn’t rehabilitate, if not only builds resentment of being failed by those that want redirection. Research shows the impact of education and employment for those returning to society. After the age of 27 recidivism is below zero if an individual is employed. And, education is the significant factor if an individual is under age 27 I believe people deserve to prove, and earn their freedom. If an individual’s sentence isn’t commensurate with all factors of a case, as we know errors happen. Or, may did not have proper representation. But, overall has proven their effort to show they are not defined by the situation that contributed them being in prison. If their effort has been proven better themselves through the challenges of those that do not I believe they deserve a Second Look to prove that. Thank You.

Good morning. I am your constituent as well as a victim of Domestic violence and I support second look. This bill as it was presented before the House was all inclusive; and is slowly becoming so that only a very few citizens will even qualify ; making it nothing more than paper pushing. Please consider passing this bill in its true form as it was originally intended - to give our incarcerated loved ones, our neighbors, parents, brothers and sisters that have already served a long term sentence in DOC a true chance to revisit the courts and let the courts decide if they have rehabilitated and are ready to become a productive member of society once again. Thank You for your consideration. Jessica Davis Chapter leader of The Forty Strong Advocate for M Potter

I am in favor of passing this Second Chance bill. Thank you

I am in favor of passing this Second Chance bill. Thank you

I truly appreciate Sen. Deeds for his willingness to carry SB427. My husband was sentenced to 73 yrs w/35 yrs suspended leaving him with 38 yrs to serve. He's been down for 24 yrs this year. He was a first time offender and suffering from mental health. His story was the push I needed to realize people like him needed a mechanism for a chance to come home--especially since he doesn't qualify for parole. He's been a model individual during his incarceration. I 100% support second chances, and for many like my husband FIRST chances! However, as a victim of 2 sexual assaults I'm very disappointed that this bill has been changed to take away this opportunity for him and others. Redemption is only achieved through a healing process. I certainly can't put a time limit on healing or trauma but what I do know is that incarcerating people for 20-30-40 yrs will not benefit anyone. I had a child as one of my assaults but I didn't allow that to keep me from seeking healing and forgiveness to the individual that raped me. People grow and change. Punishment should not be punitive but should offer the person the opportunity to become a better person and remorseful of their actions, even if it caused harm or hurt to others. That's the mission statement of our DOC--so if you believe in the mission of this agency, then you have to believe they've fulfilled their purpose after a person has been down for decades. You should also have more faith in the justices you've appointed to be able to review the petition that will be before them to determine whether a person has changed and been rehabilitated, to determine if laws that's changed over the years whether a person should be released. The changes that has occurred in this bill makes it more similar to parole where a person can simply be denied due to the nature of the offense. If that is the case they will never be able to gain freedom. Keeping people incarcerated when they are no longer a danger to society is a waste of our taxpayers dollars. As you hear everyday, there are SO many more problems that could benefit from saving dollars from putting a stop of human warehousing. You've seen that mass incarceration does nothing to prevent crime or increase public safety. I would ask that you really consider supporting this bill in it's original form--giving prosecutors and victims the sole discretion of allowing a petition to move forward is not justice nor right. I support SB427 and I hope you do too. But I also hope that you would consider allowing ALL to be able to EARN this opportunity to a second chance. As a victim with a child and never given the chance to get any justice, I'm still 100% in full support of SECOND CHANCES. Please don't take this away from people who has worked hard to earn it, people who are not the person they were decades ago, people who are changed and rehabilitated, people who have aged out of crime, people who are too old to even take care of themselves, people who have changed for the better! Thank you and pass SB427 w/o carveouts, w/o giving prosecutors and victims sole discretion.

I am writing to express support of SB427. As a loved one of a person who has been incarcerated in a VA DOC prison for nearly 30 years, the full passing of this bill would not only be life giving for my loved one inside, but for others who are impacted by incarcerated on the outside of prisons. I have witnessed the amount of work my loved one has already poured into making his return home as restorative as possible. Research shows that one of the strongest indicators for reducing and/or preventing recidivism are strong support networks. The longer a person is incarcerated, the harder it is for those who are on the outside to maintain consistent support, however, many of us find a way. Data also shows that it is women, especially women of color, who carry the majority of financial, emotional, and mental labor when loved ones are inside. The Second Look bill would acknowledge time that has been *earned*, and that has not been without cost for our loved ones, families, and communities. Hundreds of us are ready and waiting to welcome our family home. All of us deserve a 'Second Look'. Thank you for supporting SB427.

We appreciate Sen. Deeds carrying this bill. This bill provides an avenue for forgiveness for the victims, a loving gesture for the families, and potential constructive release for the incarcerated. The dead are gone; we have all lost someone. Continuing to punish and hurt does nothing for our beloved deceased, and less for us but to give us more pain. The Amish a few years ago forgave someone who had hurt their community. Forgiveness brings release. Second chances is a staple in life. Recently the Gen Assembly has allowed through SB 6 those with alcoholism issues to regain their D.L's prior to a 3-year waiting period, so they can be productive and move on. Kaitlyn Grimley, a middle school teacher who had sex with her 13/14 year old student, was allowed a 'restorative justice' component instead of incarceration because it was her first offense and she showed remorse. Amending this bill to allow victims' families and prosecutors sole discretion in making this decision allows politics and anger/rage/hurt to win the day, and no one benefits, and the public is not made any more whole. This also is why we need the parole system that is fair and just.

Hi I’m a taxpayer. I am tired of the mass incarceration after someone has served 20-30 years or 40 deserves a second chance .

To The Honorable Virginia General Assembly Members: I support the Second Look Bill SB427 without the current amendments of solely the victim and prosecutor only having the control. This gives no one a REAL Second Chance. People do change for the better. Our laws need to reflect that.

An amendment like this to the Second Look Bill goes against the election of our judges and their discretionary abilities. The value of a person's efforts, growth and change is not determined solely by the Commonwealth Attorney or the victim. Victim rights and impact statements are valid. However, veto powers are not fair justice practice. We do not support this bill.

This would be a great bill if all offense was included not excluded. I also would like to say that to have victims and prosecutors make a decision if an offender gets a day in court is not a good idea, some people never forgive and don’t believe in forgiveness. I suppose the Second Look Bill that was in its orginal form not all chopped up as they have it now. This bill all chopped up would benefit almost no one.

My name is Cormika Johnson and I support SB 427 Second Look by parton Deeds without the amendments giving the prosecutor and victim all the power to deny a petition. That is not a second look or second chance for someone who's been locked down 20 30 40 years. We all know that no victim or prosecutor will ever agree to a fair chance so the judges should have the discretion. How much time is enough? Please pass second look and provide a second chance without amendments. Thank You.

First, I look forward to seeing the Second Look Act be passed. Secondly, I am a son, a brother and a father. I am a business owner and I am a church member and volunteer in my community. In a great many ways I lean toward the Republican stances. That being said, I was also incarcerated. I spent over 7 years in the worst prisons in Virginia. Places like Red Onion and Sussex 1 and I have since returned to the community and have successfully completed indefinite Probation. During my incarceration I met many lifers and individuals with extremely long sentences who helped me while I was inside. They pushed me to be the citizen I am today. I believe those same people deserve a second chance. I do not agree with the amendment that allows victims and Prosecutors to shut down a petition before it goes in front of a judge. I believe that the victim of a crime should have the right to speak at a hearing but I do not support the idea that a victim or prosecutor holds the ability to choose if someone’s petition moves forward. Due process would not be properly afforded if a judge is not given the deciding factor in whether or not a petition is granted or even moves forward. I know that if it was up to a prosecutor I would still be incarcerated; instead I now have a family of my own and I contribute wholeheartedly to my community. I am thankful for those who God chose to use IN PRISON to help me on my path to reentry into the community. Please be mindful that God is the Author of Second Chances and the Second Look Act would currently be the only tool by which a genuine second chance can be had. Thank you for your consideration. God bless.

Fighting 4 Freedom supports the Second Look Bill. The Second Look Bill should not have an amendment that closes the opportunity for a sentence modification based on input from the victim(s) or the Commonwealth Attorneys. Each person who qualifies should have the opportunity to have their cases reviewed. Since the individual will be assigned an attorney, the attorneys and the Commonwealth may provide arguments/reply to the Judge to determine if a sentence modification is warranted. I strongly support the Second Look Bill for various reasons. First too many people are serving excessive sentences based on 1) laws that were misinterpreted by Judges, 2) Sentencing Disparities 3) Juries recommendation of sentences that were pronounced without the use of sentencing guidelines, and 4) Sentences that could have been ran concurrently or suspended. This Bill is necessary to restore fairness in a broken system and to give individuals an opportunity to return back to society. Too many people are serving decades in prison long after they have proven they are rehabilitated. If we are spending billions of dollars to incarcerate individuals it is time we spend millions to release and provide housing, employment, and all that is necessary to have a successful transition back into society. We need to stop warehousing expotential abilities and give people a Second Look. Pass the Second Look Bill without amendments and exclusions! Thank you, Karen Morrison President, and Founder of Fighting 4 Freedom

Good morning House, Thank you for the opportunity to share with you today regrading our deserving men and woman having a second chance. My husband Khali Pyatt-Muhammad, has taken the time to really grow, mature, and learn over the last 24 years of being incarcerated. From classes that provoke thought and change, to mentoring his peers; Khali has and continues to learn valuable lessons of redemption and hope. Khali entered prison a 19 year old boy, and has grown into a strong, caring, rule abiding, smart, intelligent, empathetic man that is looking to give back to society by reaching back to help another lost person find their way. The passing of this bill would mean so much to those incarcerated, and their families who understand with proper life skills and hard work Second Chances work when they are actually given. I support SB427. Thank you for your time.

This bill is too broad. What about those that are in on a probation violation, time has been served for the original crime to the fullest will the victims/prosecutor be asked from the original crime or the new crime for the violation? What about those that the victim/prosecutor has since passed? What about victimless crimes?

I would like to speak out and support of second look because you have many men and women in Virginia DOC that have been locked down for 20, 30, 40 years without hope. Are we saying that people are not redeemable? Is 20 30 40 years not long enough to learn a lesson? I am asking that sb427 be amended to not give the prosecutor and victim all the power, but please allow judges the discretion to look at if a person has changed and if they deserve a second chance.

I am writing to encourage support of the 2nd look bill. I have a son, Michael Billings who has been incarcerated since he was 17 years old. He will be 33 next month and is nothing like the impulsive, angry teenager he once was. He was given 95 years with 25 to serve for a split decision he made under the influence of drugs. He stole some lighters and beers from a grocery store, he was caught, and complied, but when he was told the cops were called and he was going down, he made the decision to run. 4 employees tackled him, and in his state of mind, all he knew is he wanted them off of him. He pulled out his pocket knife and swung it for 3 to 5 seconds cutting all 4 of them, yelling at the people to get off him. Once they released their grip, he ran. Should my son have been punished for this, ABSOLUTELY!! But 95 years is outrageous, and I would appreciate so much having his sentence reviewed for possible reduction. He was a child and should receive a 2nd chance at life. Thank you for your time, Mary Warren

Hello, Please take a third look and pass Second Look. My husband of 30 years just got sentenced to 20 years, first time offense and he truly is a kind, giving , contributor to his family, friends and , community . He made a horrible mistake but owns it and has even been helping others while incarcerated to have a closer relationship to God. People do change, people need rehabilitation not years and years in prison, let them prove with their good behavior & efforts that they deserve a Second Change. My husband is a loving father , husband, friend and has never in his 57 years of life been in trouble with the law. Yet he will now most likely die in prison due to his mandatory minimum and his multiple health issues. Please look and vote YES for a second look, these people are fathers, mothers, husband's, wives, sisters,, brothers , sons, daughters. Help them come home. Thank you for your time, Maria Crouse Wife of incarcerated husband David

I’m writing in support of SB427 This is an amazing bill and pray that it becomes law, Virginia needs this! For those reading this I want to remind everyone that this is a second look , this is not an open the door and release. This merely allows people to petition the court to review their sentence and consider what the person has done inside our prison walls! Over 15 years a person that has made correct choices inside our prison walls and has better themselves in the horrific conditions. To ME A TAXPAYER in Virginia believe that they are no longer the same person from 15 years ago and don’t need to be behind our prison walls! That is wasting our resources and taxpayers dollars! I just want to also mention that someone who hasn’t done the correct things to become a better human will not have their petition granted, also this bill also allows for the victim to have a say! Please pass SB437 and remember it’s a SECOND LOOK ! Please forgive the typos as I am using my phone to type this! SUPPORT SB427

ALL deserve a second chance, decisions are often made under the influence of drugs, alcohol and peer pressure. Both violent and non violent offenders deserve a chance to redeem themselves. Someone, somewhere in your past gave you a second chance and now you have the power to give it to others. Be my voice and vote yes for second look. Thank you

I am writing to ask you to VOTE YES for SB427 Second Look Legislation. People serving excessive sentences of 30, 40 or more years behind bars do change. This bill will enable the courts to reevaluate their sentence and their rehabilitation and determine if their sentence is still appropriate today. We trust the judges to give the initial sentence, we can trust them to decide if rehabilitation has occurred. Everyone deserves a Second Chance, a Second Look. Please VOTE YES for SB427.

Please continue to support and Pass this bill into law. Not everyone in a Virginia prison is a murderer or a rapist. But unfortunately, every day, you have murderers and rapist walk out of prison free while someone who never maimed or killed anyone, still waits for a chance to do the same. Virginia had a population of imprisoned boys that are now grown men almost retirement age. People have sentences that doesn’t match the crime and are spending more time in prison than others who did the same crime or worse. Most of the incarcerated population have skills that will benefit the community they return to. Why wouldn’t the department of corrections want to showcase that? This bill passing into law is the only chance that some have of not dying in incarceration. It’s obvious now that our corrections department has to be overseen and overhauled. This bill is one of the most humane ways to start that process. Please pass SB427 into Law.

I fully support SB 427. This bill is not proposing that individuals should not be held accountable for their mistakes. It's not suggesting a get out of jail free card for everyone who commits a crime. It is about taking a second look into the sentences of people who have served a significant amount of time and who have proven their sincere growth and remorse for their mistakes. This would incentivize individuals to participate in programs and behaviors that will help them grow, learn and become positive contributions to their families and the community if given the opportunity to have their sentence modified. The point of incarceration is not only to have people take accountability for their crimes but also to rehabilitate individuals who have made mistakes and allow for them to have a chance to come home to prove that they will be productive members of society.

My name is Elizabeth Melson. I am writing from Rappahannock County. I am a former Independent candidate for Virginia Senate District 28 and a formerly incarcerated person. I believe that we should give a Second Look to lengthy sentences. Correctional residents who have actively participated in their rehabilitation, who have made an effort to heal, grow, and gain new skills should be reviewed for adjusted sentences. Many times, sentences are much longer than needed to serve the purpose of punishment. Laws change and people mature with age. Policies that reward good behavior and efforts to reform should be implemented. Here is a link to a documentary that shows how positive and effective programming, coupled with the opportunity to have sentences reviewed can create major shifts in corrections. https://youtu.be/JP9ObM1Ftlo?si=9zLueuA-Ipg5Phqb

I support Senate Bill 427 I believe that everybody deserves a second chance let them do good on the inside to let them out to come see what they have learned to put in place on the outside let them be with their families let the sick ones go home let them be cared for by their family or Professional Health Care not in Vadoc to be neglected. My son for instant got 20 years for an accidental death he has already paid the price of losing a loved one he should not serve 20 years what is prison going to reform him of he didn't sell drugs he didn't walk into a bank and Rob it he didn't have a gun. It wasn't malicious let him come home and start a family before he's too old to do that let him find peace in the death of his son let him have closure with his family especially his grandmother's and grandfathers that are over 85 years old he's already lost four family members since he's been in there for 8 year. there are other people that have been over sentence the guidelines have changed change these inmates sentences. There are inmates in there for possession of marijuana or selling marijuana it is legal in the state of Virginia let them free your wasting taxpayers money I am a registered voter of Stuarts Draft Virginia.

I support Senate Bill 427 I believe that everybody deserves a second chance let them do good on the inside to let them out to come see what they have learned to put in place on the outside let them be with their families let the sick ones go home let them be cared for by their family or Professional Health Care not in Vadoc to be neglected. My son for instant got 20 years for an accidental death he has already paid the price of losing a loved one he should not serve 20 years what is prison going to reform him of he didn't sell drugs he didn't walk into a bank and Rob it he didn't have a gun. It wasn't malicious let him come home and start a family before he's too old to do that let him find peace in the death of his son let him have closure with his family especially his grandmother's and grandfathers that are over 85 years old he's already lost four family members since he's been in there for 8 year. there are other people that have been over sentence the guidelines have changed change these inmates sentences. There are inmates in there for possession of marijuana or selling marijuana it is legal in the state of Virginia let them free your wasting taxpayers money I am a registered voter of Stuarts Draft Virginia.

My loved one received an excessively lengthy sentence at the age of 18 and has now spent more time in prison than he has outside of it. Unfortunately, the circumstances surrounding his crime, including his youth, lack of family support, and homelessness, were not fully considered. I believe it is unjust for him to remain incarcerated into his 50s without being given a chance to demonstrate his capacity to contribute positively to society as a law-abiding, tax-paying citizen. At 40 years old, he deserves the opportunity to prove that he has changed since the age of 18 and has undergone rehabilitation.