Meet the #PleadThe8th Team

Discover the passionate individuals behind PleadThe8th. Our team, from key leaders and visionary founders to dedicated volunteers and influential advisors from within the prison system, all play a pivotal role in driving our mission forward.

JESSICA RICHARDSON

Founder

Jessica is the Founder and Executive Director of PleadThe8th. She holds a BA in Business Administration, Psychology, and further education in Applied Behavior Analysis. With over a decade of experience as a social worker for at-risk youth, Jessica passionately leads efforts to promote justice and equality. 

Terrence Graham

Co-Founder

Co-founding PleadThe8th and inspiring its establishment, Terrence, was incarcerated as a child and behind the US Supreme Court case Graham v. Florida.

De'neair Stanley

Co-Founder

Co-founding and inspiring the establishment of PleadThe8th, De'neair is 1 of the 2,632 currently incarcerated in Florida for crimes committed as a child.

In Action ▶

  • Nature's Symphony

    Breathtaking colors of our planet
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    • The Founder's Daughter ▶

    The Inspiration Behind Our Name

    At just 10 years old, Aakyrah, the daughter of our founder, inspired our mission’s name, PleadThe8th. Learning about the injustices highlighted in Graham v. Florida, she recognized the power of the Eighth Amendment in advocating for fair treatment of juveniles. Her insight continues to inspire our work and vision.

    Continuing her Advocacy

    Building on the insights that inspired our organization's name, Aakyrah, now a 6th grader, has taken her commitment to juvenile justice reform a step further. In her award-winning speech titled 'Kids in Prison', she articulately addresses the harsh realities faced by juveniles in the penal system and advocates for transformative changes. Her speech has not only won accolades but also sparked meaningful conversations about reforming youth justice. We invite you to watch her compelling presentation and her call for action.

    Contributions from Incarcerated Individuals ▶

    Voices from Within

    At PleadThe8th, we deeply believe in the voices and contributions of those we serve. Our mission is not only to advocate on behalf of those who are currently incarcerated but also to involve them directly in our efforts. We recognize the immense value of their firsthand experiences and insights in shaping the policies and practices that affect their lives and the lives of others in similar situations.

    Ronald

    Advocate from Within

    Thomas

    Incarcerated Advocate

    Garrison

    Advocate from Within