Tennessee Governor Grants Jelly Roll Full Pardon For Past Convictions

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee granted country music star Jelly Roll a full pardon Thursday for past criminal convictions. The singer, whose real name is Jason DeFord, was among 33 people pardoned by Lee. The 41-year-old was convicted of robbery at age 17 after stealing $350 from people in a home in 2002, resulting in one year in prison plus probation. In 2008, police found marijuana and crack cocaine in his car, leading to eight years of court-ordered supervision. “His story is remarkable, and it’s a redemptive, powerful story, which is what you look for and what you hope for,” Lee told reporters. DeFord began petitioning the Board of Parole last October. The pardon allows him to travel internationally for tours and missionary work without paperwork restrictions, while restoring civil rights including voting. (Story URL)