Jelly Roll receives pardon for past felonies

Country music star Jelly Roll has been granted a pardon for two felony convictions spanning more than a decade.

On Thursday, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee granted pardons to 33 people, including the singer, whose previous convictions included robbery and drug possession charges in Davidson County.

Governor Lee called Jelly Roll’s journey “amazing,” calling it a powerful example of redemption.

Lee, who spoke to reporters, said that it was clear to him that the artist deserves to be forgiven, citing the personal changes he has shown over the years.

The amnesty applies to the 2003 robbery and 2008 drug possession convictions.

While it doesn’t completely erase Jelly Roll’s criminal record, it does officially pardon those crimes.

Jelly Roll submitted his request for clemency last year, supported by letters from friends, public officials, and individuals in the music industry.

In April 2024, Nashville Sheriff Daron Hall supported the pardon, and about a year later, the parole board unanimously recommended it.

Jelly Roll said that forgiveness allows him to be an example to others who are trying to change, especially those with similar struggles.

He has spoken openly about his ordeal, including being arrested more than 40 times and first arrested at the age of 14.

Since his victory, he has used his show to advocate for criminal justice reform, urge action against fentanyl, and talk to incarcerated individuals about rehabilitation and second chances.