Richard Holt Jr., a pro per (self-represented) inmate in San Bernardino County, is currently facing a life sentence — not because the evidence points to guilt, but because his constitutional rights have been trampled by a system corrupted by selective prosecution, abuse of gang enhancements, and due process violations.
The Charges: A Burglary Case Turned Into a Life Sentence
Holt was originally facing a non-violent burglary charge. Despite GPS monitor data showing he was not at the scene of the alleged crime, his case was inflated into a potential life sentence through the strategic application of Penal Code §186.22 gang enhancements — a prosecutorial tool often abused to increase sentencing exposure, even when there’s no clear evidence of active gang participation.
Destruction of Legal Materials While Representing Himself
While preparing his defense as a pro per inmate at High Desert Detention Center, Holt’s legal rights were blatantly violated. A deputy who was part of both the investigative unit and the gang task force searched his cell — under a warrant tied to the same case — and destroyed legal documents, motions, and evidence that were critical to his defense.
This action constitutes a direct violation of:
- First Amendment rights (access to courts),
- Sixth Amendment rights (right to prepare a defense),
- and Fourteenth Amendment due process protections.
No Independent Oversight. No Fair Shot.
Despite the clear misconduct, no independent investigation has been initiated. Holt, without the benefit of appointed investigative support, is left to fight a system stacked against him — where prosecutors, deputies, and investigators appear to work hand-in-hand, unchecked and unaccountable.
Why This Matters: Pro Per Rights Are Under Fire
This is not just about one man. It’s about a pattern in San Bernardino County — where inmates who choose to represent themselves or challenge gang enhancements are often punished through procedural sabotage, intimidation, or strategic neglect.
What You Can Do:
We are calling on:
- Civil rights attorneys
- Criminal defense organizations
- Legal journalists
- Pro bono advocates
to review this case and help expose what’s happening behind the scenes.
🖊️ Sign the petition.
🔍 Demand independent legal oversight.
⚖️ Stand up for due process and pro per inmate rights.
Call to Action:
If you’re a legal advocate, investigator, journalist, or simply someone who believes in justice — reach out. Richard Holt Jr. deserves his day in court, with full access to his constitutional rights.
📧 Contact us at: justiceforholtz@gmail.com
📌 Visit: justiceforholtz.wordpress.com
📝 Sign the upcoming petition [link placeholder]
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