Raven 23: Sentences reduced, but hopeful for a presidential pardon

Last week, the Raven 23 defendants Dustin Heard (Olney, Texas), Paul Slough (Kellar, Texas) and Evan Liberty (Rochester, New York) appeared before a judge for resentencing. Stacey and Lawana Heard, Olney residents and parents of Dustin Heard, attended the sentencing that was initially set for August 14 and was postponed until Sept. 5.

The Heards were hoping the initial ruling by Judge Royce Lamberth would be overturned, but had to settle for reduced sentcing instead.

Lawana Heard released this statement on Facebook:

“So the sentencing didn’t go as we wanted, but the sentencing for Dustin Heard did drop to [12.5] years, which means [the] five years [he] already served will come off of [his original sentence] making it 7.5 [years remaining]. So with that said, he has to serve 80% of the whole sentence. So that means 4.5 years he will have to serve,” Heard said.

Heard also noted that the defendants may file an appeal within 14 days of the ruling. She did not indicate if they are planning to file an appeal, but she is praying for President Trump to pardon the defendants.

The Heards are grateful for the support of the community.

“We want to thank everyone for the support and prayers. Please keep them coming,” Heard said.