Jelly Roll ‘prays’ A Recommended Pardon By Parole Board Goes Through

Country prima Jelly Roll has been very vocal astir his much than 40 arrests, conscionable arsenic large arsenic he’s been astir turning his life around. Now, he mightiness beryllium 1 measurement person to officially closing nan section connected his past.

According to The Associated Press, nan Tennessee Board of Parole has unanimously voted to urge him for a pardon. One committee personnel recused themselves, but nan remainder gave nan greenish light. It’s now up to Gov. Bill Lee to determine whether to assistance it.

Jelly Roll’s criminal record

Born and raised successful Nashville, Jelly Roll –– whose existent sanction is Jason DeFord –– was first arrested astatine property 14. Over nan years, he’s racked up much than 40 arrests, mostly tied to drugs. He’s served time, but he’s besides utilized his level to springiness backmost by visiting prisons, supporting rehab centers, and staying progressive successful outreach activity –– moreover while connected tour.

In an interview, he said, “I believe this goes through. But coming was typical for me, regardless.”

A lawsuit for clemency

According to The Tennessean, Jelly Roll started his pardon exertion past October. He submitted statements from friends, civic leaders and euphony executives each backing nan request.

He’s moreover been vocal connected a nationalist level, testifying earlier Congress past twelvemonth astir his individual conflict pinch addiction arsenic lawmakers discussed nan ongoing fentanyl crisis.

More than a circuit pass

A pardon wouldn’t conscionable clear Jelly Roll’s record, it could thief him circuit internationally. So far, he’s only been granted support to execute successful Canada and nan U.K. But he says this isn’t conscionable astir music.

The 40-year-old creator says he wants to proceed doing missionary activity good into his 50s and 60s.

Gov. Lee’s pardon record

Gov. Lee has granted much than 90 pardons since 2021. Last December, he issued clemency for 43 group successful 1 day, each of whom were recommended by nan Tennessee Board of Parole. Each had been retired of situation for astatine slightest 5 years and was nary longer connected probation.

Speaking connected Jelly Roll’s lawsuit Tuesday, April 22, Lee told reporters, “The reporting connected Jelly Roll, that’s encouraging for his situation, but location are steps yet to hap successful that case.”