More than 1,500 people have signed a petition calling for a life sentence for Fred Sheppard. Last month, he pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the death of Kimberly Byrne, his common-law wife.

Sheppard was originally charged with second degree murder.

The Crown and defence lawyers are recommending the maximum sentence of 10 years. However, that's not enough according to some people.

Marcella Bradley, who organized a protest against Sheppard's recommended sentence earlier this year, is spearheading the petition, enlisting the help of others in hopes of adding thousands of names to the list.

"I'm telling everyone that I give them to don't be satisfied with five or 10 [names]. If we get 1,000 and think we're satisfied that's only 10% of the population."

The petition asks that Sheppard receive a life sentence with no parole for 25 years.

Bradley plans to hold another rally next Tuesday. She'll present her petition to the premier and attorney general.

Sheppard is to be sentenced May 28.