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by: Alicia Patton
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — More than 30 people, including country music star and Nashville native Jelly Roll, were pardoned Thursday afternoon by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee.
The Tennessee Board of Parole was heavily involved in the decision-making and each case was extensively reviewed, according to officials.
“After thoroughly reviewing the merits of each case, I have decided to grant 33 individuals executive clemency,” said Gov. Lee. “Each individual case is unique and warranted consideration, and I thank the Board of Parole members for their thoughtful recommendations throughout this process.”
All 33 people who were granted executive clemency have reportedly served their sentences and are not subject to any type of supervision.
The decision comes just months after the Tennessee Board of Parole and Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall recommended a pardon for 41-year-old Jason DeFord, also known as Jelly Roll, after a hearing in which several witnesses advocated for the “Need a Favor” artist.
Jelly Roll had said he was seeking clemency to be able to travel internationally for performances.
According to the Associated Press, Jelly Roll’s most serious convictions include robbery and drug charges. In addition, the rapper-turned-singer reportedly has two misdemeanor offenses for driving without a license and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Jelly Roll has since made several contributions to Music City, including visiting jails and rehabilitation centers to perform concerts and serving Thanksgiving meals at the local rescue mission.
During a Thursday morning call, officials stated that the artist was “treated the same as every single person who asks for clemency.”
https://wgntv.com/news/deans-list/jelly-roll-among-33-pardoned-by-tennessee-governor/