Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) pardoned country singer Jelly Roll, citing the musician’s recovery from drug addiction and time in prison through songwriting and advocacy. Supporters, including Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall and other civic leaders, urged the pardon after a parole board review.
Lee said, “His story is remarkable, and it’s a redemptive, powerful story, which is what you look for and what you hope for.”
Jelly Roll, whose legal name is Jason Deford, said the pardon will make international travel easier for tours and missionary work. He has spoken publicly about his redemption and testified before Congress about fentanyl.
Some criminal justice advocates and legal scholars warn that celebrity pardons threaten fairness by creating the impression that fame outweighs equal treatment under the law. They argue clemency decisions should favor lesser-known applicants who have shown rehabilitation but lack public platforms or political backing…