"The rapper-turned-singer whose legal name is Jason Deford has spoken for years about his redemption arc before diverse audiences, from people serving time in correctional centers to concert crowds and even in testimony before Congress. Republican Gov. Bill Lee issued the pardon after friends and civic leaders of the Grammy-nominated musician joined in an outpouring of support."
"Jelly Roll's convictions include robbery and drug felonies. He has said a pardon would make it easier for him to travel internationally for concert tours and to perform Christian missionary work without filling out burdensome paperwork."
"He was one of 33 people to receive pardons Thursday from Lee, who for years has issued clemency decisions around the Christmas season. Lee said Jelly Roll's application underwent the same monthslong thorough review as other applicants. The state parole board gave a nonbinding, unanimous recommendation for Jelly Roll's pardon in April. "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."
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee granted a pardon to Jelly Roll, legal name Jason Deford, for past state convictions including robbery and drug felonies. The pardon followed a monthslong review and a unanimous, nonbinding recommendation from the state parole board. Jelly Roll has presented a redemption narrative through soul-searching, songwriting and advocacy, speaking to incarcerated people, concert audiences and testifying before Congress. The pardon will simplify international travel and reduce paperwork for missionary work. Lee included Jelly Roll among 33 people pardoned that day and met the musician at the governor's mansion.
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