Stormy Jade Barber

Was murdered 2-17-1997 at just 4 months old.

She has been at the cemetery; me and her mother go visit often.

She is without a tombstone. I would like to change this for my stepdaughter and her mother. Stormy's murderer, after 29 years, has come up for parole. Yesterday, my amazing, strong wife had to tell her reason he needs to stay in jail. This was her voice:

Dear Members of the Parole Board,

My name is Charlene Gilbert, formerly Charlene Barber. I am writing to formally and respectfully oppose the release of Jason Barber on parole.

The crime committed by Mr. Barber (11543) had a devastating and permanent impact on my life and my family. My daughter, Stormy Jade, was murdered, and nothing can undo the loss. She was my firstborn, and her life was taken 29 years ago yesterday before she had the opportunity to grow, build a future, or live the life she deserved. I was never given the chance to continue being her mother, and that loss has affected every part of my life.

Since her death, I have experienced profound emotional and psychological trauma. I have required ongoing mental health treatment, including multiple psychiatric hospitalizations and long-term medication. The fear, grief, and pain caused by the crime remain with me every day. The impact of Mr. Barber's actions did not end with the sentence he received; it continues to this day.

I do not believe Mr. Barber has demonstrated genuine remorse or accountability for the seriousness of his actions. Given the nature of the crime and the lasting harm it caused, I believe his release would pose a risk to public safety and to my family as well. I also live with the ongoing fear that his release could place me in danger, retraumatizing me and threatening my sense of safety and stability.

Parole should be reserved for individuals who no longer pose a risk and who have shown meaningful rehabilitation. Based on the severity of this crime and its lifelong consequences, I strongly believe that granting parole in this case would undermine justice and fail to honor the life that was taken.

For these reasons, I respectfully ask the board to deny parole and keep Mr. Barber incarcerated. Thank you for taking the time to consider my statement and for recognizing the lasting impact this crime has had on my life and the lives of those who loved my daughter.

Sincerely,

Charlene Gilbert

Nicole Rodriguez

Featured causes