Stop the Execution of Jesse Guardado in Florida

Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency

Jesse Guardado was sentenced to death for the 2004 murder of Jackie Malone, a friend who had helped him find housing, work, and stability after his release from prison. At the time, Jesse was struggling with severe crack cocaine addiction and killed her during a robbery after a prolonged drug binge. He voluntarily confessed, cooperated with investigators, and pleaded guilty, hoping to spare her loved ones the pain of a trial.

Jesse’s life had been marked by childhood loss, neglect, and sexual and physical abuse, including at Florida’s notorious Dozier School for Boys. His jury never heard the full extent of that trauma. During more than two decades on death row, he has maintained sobriety, developed a deep faith, and remained connected to family members who love and rely on him. He has consistently accepted responsibility for Jackie’s death and expressed profound remorse for the suffering he caused.

Please sign this petition urging Governor DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency to stop this execution and commute Jesse Guardado's sentence to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

This page will be updated as more information becomes available. Last updated October 13, 2026

To: Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency
From: [Your Name]

Florida has acknowledged the suffering of children abused at the Dozier School. That acknowledgment should extend to mercy for Jesse Guardado, whose jury never heard what the state put him through.

We urge you to stop Jesse’s execution, scheduled for November 5, 2026, and commute his death sentence to life without parole.

Jesse was sentenced to death for the murder of Jackie Malone, a friend who had helped him rebuild his life. Her murder was horrific, and our plea for mercy acknowledges the profound loss and suffering Jesse caused. He voluntarily confessed, pleaded guilty, and has consistently accepted responsibility and expressed deep remorse.

His jury never heard the full extent of his childhood trauma, including the beatings and abuse he endured at Dozier. During more than two decades on death row, Jesse has maintained sobriety, found faith, and demonstrated that he can live a peaceful, useful life in prison.

Another death will not undo the harm of Jackie’s murder. Jesse can be held accountable without being executed. Please grant him mercy by commuting his sentence to life without the possibility of parole.