Juveniles who are sent to prison for life terms are dying in prison with little hope of ever being released.  Over thirty-five years ago, in 1974, Congress passed the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act.  It is a Federal Legislation that governs federal policy on Juvenile Justice.  Before this law passed, kids were being confined in adult jails and prisons.  The public became outraged because children were being sexually abused and physically assaulted.  Now, over three decades later, our government has bypassed the 1974 Juvenile laws and manipulated ways into locking children up again in adult jails and prisons, for life.  Where is the outcry from the public this time, demanding justice for the improper treatment these children are being condemned to?  The only answer that I can come up with is that, "The good people of this county must not know what is going on within the juvenile justice system and our children."   

Heather was raise in Tulsa Oklahoma, born an addict, physically and sexually abuse her entire childhood by those closest to her.  From the abusers, she recalls having to hide herself and younger siblings, so that perhaps they would live through the night unharmed.  She was misguided and mislead by the adults that surrounded her and encouraged her to make poor choices.  When Heather was 16, she was charged and convicted with First Degree Murder and Shooting with Intent to Kill.  She received 25 years, plus + life in prison.  Each sentence running consecutive.   

Heather takes full responsibility for her crime, and the pain, suffering and loss that her actions caused other.  However, this sentence is clearly an example of cruel and unusual punishment.  It has been 19 years since her crime was committed and she exhibits true habits of rehabilitation.  However, due to the degree of unjust sentencing, Heather remains in prison, possibly until she dies.  

Heather is appealing for a modification of sentencing or the possible chance of parole.  Heather is not a California inmate.  She is an Oklahoma inmate on an interstate compact which causes her file to be neglected for potential parole.  Keep in mind that while punishment for crimes must be paid, Heather was unjustly sentenced.  Please sign this petition that request for Heather to receive a modification of her sentence.  

She can also be found on facebook.com under "Second Chance for Heather".  If you have any concerns and or want to volunteer for her cause, please e-mail rheathermiller@aol.com , you can also request to correspond with Heather.

Visit www.govtrack.us (#2289) Juvenile Justice and Accountability and support the fight for Juvenile Justice. 

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