Standing in Hope — Our 2025 Year in Review
As 2025 comes to a close, we want to wish everyone a safe and peaceful holiday season. This year marked a significant chapter in the ongoing fight for justice for Robert — defined by truth-seeking, accountability, and a growing community committed to fairness.
A Year of Progress and Truth
January 2025
Robert completed and passed both a polygraph examination and EyeDetect test, confirming with 97% certainty that his account of the events of July 3–4, 2008 is truthful.
February 2025
Robert’s clemency application was formally filed with the State of Ohio, supported by sworn witness statements, expert analysis, and extensive documentation.
March 2025
We received a powerful letter of support from the original sentencing judge, recognizing the seriousness and legitimacy of Robert’s clemency case.
Throughout the Year
New volunteers joined the effort, and JusticeForRobert.com was launched to centralize education, advocacy, and public engagement.
May 2025
Robert was granted permission to participate in a documentary interview, allowing his voice and lived experience to be shared publicly for the first time.
June 2025
Community outreach expanded through advocacy efforts and public dialogue, including engagement at ComFest, where Robert’s case reached new audiences.
August 2025
A previously unseen police report related to an earlier incident involving Aaron prior to July 2008 was located, providing important additional context surrounding the case.
September 2025
The documentary My Name Is Robert Ruark: The Unspoken Sentence was completed.
November 2025
The documentary premiered in Hollywood, opening broader conversations about sentencing, self-defense, and justice reform.
Community Impact and Positive Contribution
While incarcerated, Robert continued to contribute meaningfully to his community. In addition to working full-time as a staff dog handler, he:
- Participated in the Columbus Police Department’s Beyond Enforcement initiative
- Served on discussion panels for university law classes
- Helped organize a food drive for London’s Help House
- Completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management and Leadership through Franklin University
Across 2025, Robert’s team strengthened support from legal professionals, academics, faith leaders, advocates, and community members across Ohio and beyond.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we move toward the Governor’s decision in 2026, our commitment remains unwavering. We will continue showing up — advocating, educating, and standing together — until justice is achieved and Robert can finally come home.
To everyone who has supported, shared resources, volunteered, spoken out, or walked alongside us this year: thank you. Your support truly matters.
We move forward together — standing in hope.
— The Justice for Robert Team