The fight continues
Sentence Modification Denied in Sarah Jo Pender’s Case
On January 5, 2026, Marion Superior Court Judge Kevin Snyder denied Sarah Jo Pender’s request for sentence modification, meaning she will continue to be incarcerated under her 110-year sentence.
The decision came despite significant new evidence raising serious concerns about the integrity of Sarah’s conviction, and despite the extraordinary support of Larry Sells, the former prosecutor who originally secured her conviction and has since stated publicly that he believes she was wrongly convicted.
The court’s ruling was issued without explanation. For Sarah’s family, supporters, and those of us working on her case, it represents a deeply disappointing setback in a long fight for justice.
What Happens Next
While this decision is a blow, it does not end the case. The evidence calling Sarah’s conviction into question is clear.
We will continue to support Sarah, raise awareness of her case, and press for accountability within Indiana’s justice system.
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The fight for justice continues. We’re not stopping here.
