#PleadThe8th is founded on the principles of justice, equity, and fairness, and we are dedicated to bringing about tangible change in the lives of those impacted by the justice system.
Our organization is not just enriched by the voices, experiences, and perspectives of those directly impacted by this complex problem – it is defined by them. By amplifying the voices of those directly impacted by youth incarceration, we can pave the way for a more just and equitable future.
Our blog
"Voices of the Silenced"
gives a voice to those that were sent to prison as kids.
Kids in Prison: Voices of the Silenced. #PleadThe8th
BARTOW, FL– Originally granted a resentencing opportunity in 2018, Rachaun Blount's chance for a fair hearing was delayed for five years. At the age of 16, Blount received a harsh 40-year sentence for a non-homicide offense. Now, his resentencing is finally scheduled for June 5, 2024, highlighting systemic failures in juvenile justice. PleadThe8th is spotlighting severe disparities in juvenile sentencing and Florida's continued failure to align with established legal standards.
The recent legislative move in the Florida Legislature, particularly with House Bill 1181 and Senate Bill 1274, which propose to reclassify minor firearm possession from a misdemeanor to a felony, raises severe concerns about our prosecutors' and lawmakers' underlying intentions. In addition to these concerns, the proposed legislation's handling of contraband within juvenile facilities—where mere possession of everyday items like cell phones and coins could lead to severe felony charges—further exacerbates the potential for unjust treatment.
Terrence Graham and advocates of PleadThe8th have led the charge, advocating and educating lawmakers and the public on the myriad of challenges that youth face when entangled in legal proceedings. The filing of the Juvenile Review Bill in the 2024 Florida Legislative Session is a crucial legislative move toward rectifying the critical issues faced by youth in the justice system.
January 6, 2024— Today, PleadThe8th released a report titled "Highlighting Inconsistencies & Calls for Legislative Action: Florida’s Juvenile Sentencing Reviews, §921.1402 (2015-2023)." This comprehensive analysis sheds light on the critical inconsistencies and constitutional challenges within Florida’s juvenile sentencing framework, underscoring a decade of judicial appeals for legislative clarity and reform.
Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in the life of Terrence Graham, co-founder of PleadThe8th and a former juvenile lifer. As he turns 37 years old– it’s not only his birthday but also marks the countdown to his long-awaited freedom.
Over the past decade, Florida's §921.1402, a statute enacted in 2014 in response to landmark U.S.
Supreme Court decisions in Graham v. Florida (2010) and Miller v. Alabama (2012) on juvenile sentencing, has been mired in ambiguity and inconsistent application.
Tallahassee, FL, December 13, 2023 – PleadThe8th, an advocate for juvenile justice reform, announces its instrumental role in the filing of Senate Bill 930 (SB930), a significant step towards addressing the long-standing inequities in Florida's juvenile justice system.
The Power of Personal Experience: The Heart of PleadThe8th's Mission. Introducing our Honorary Co-Founders Terrence Graham and Deneair Stanley
PleadThe8th Advocates for Juvenile Justice Reform in Florida.
Kids in Prison: Voices of the Silenced { Part 4: Philip Mosier }
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