Jelly Roll Is One Step Closer To A Full Pardon For His Past Crimes
on Apr 24, 2025
Jelly Roll Is Working Towards A Clean Slate Following A Troubled Youth
Jelly Roll is not one to try to hide his transgressions. In fact, he speaks openly of his struggles in hopes of inspiring others not to follow the same path. He regularly visits schools and prisons, offering words of hope and encouragement to those who wish to make a better life for themselves.
Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, was in and out of jail between the ages of 14 and 25. The Tennessee native says he grew up in a neighborhood where “the only people who had money did crime.” His most serious convictions include aggravated robbery at age 16 and drug charges at age 23.
The rapper-turned-country-singer now uses his troubled past as inspiration for his music, which can be heard in songs like “Halfway To Hell” and “Son of a Sinner.”
“Mistakes I made, I paid for them in cash /
Walked a million miles on broken glass /
I’m feeling like I’m fading /
My heart’s been slowly breaking.”
Tennessee Board Recommends Jelly Roll’s Pardon
This week, Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall shared that the state Board of Parole voted to endorse a full pardon for Jelly Roll in a less than two-hour hearing. He revealed that the board members’ vote was unanimous, with one member recusing themselves from the voting.
The AP quotes Jelly Roll’s reaction to the hearing:
“This was incredible. I pray this goes through. But today was special for me, regardless.”
A year ago, I wrote @GovBillLee asking for a full Pardon for Jason “Jelly Roll” Deford…..today the Board unanimously recommended his Pardon. It’s now in the hands of our Governor. pic.twitter.com/NACZOGW2y0
— Daron Hall (@DaronHall7) April 22, 2025
The Case Is Now In The Hands Of Governor Bill Lee
In accordance with Tennessee law, the case is now in the hands of Governor Bill Lee. He feels strongly that every case seeking clemency goes through a thorough review. While he says the reporting on Jelly Roll’s case is “encouraging,” the Republican Governor emphasizes that there are still necessary steps left in that process.
So what does this mean? At present, Jelly Roll’s criminal record excludes him from voting in local and national elections. Additionally, the 40-year-old faces barriers when traveling and booking shows internationally due to his felonies. A full pardon would reinstate his rights and make him eligible for an expungement, or wiping, of his record.
Jelly Roll told the board:
“I want to be an inspiration for people who are now where I used to be — to let them know that change is truly possible. One of the reasons I’m asking for your recommendation for this pardon is because I’m looking to take my message of redemption through the power of music and faith through the rest of the world.”
