Country music sensation Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, received a full pardon from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee on Thursday, December 18, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the artist's well-documented journey of redemption from a troubled past. The pardon forgives two felony convictions from Davidson County: a 2003 aggravated robbery charge and a 2008 drug possession offense involving cocaine and marijuana.
Lee personally delivered the news to Jelly Roll at the Tennessee Governor's Mansion in Oak Hill, where the two shared a hug in front of holiday decorations. The governor, who met the musician for the first time that day, praised his transformation during a press call: "His story is remarkable, and it’s a redemptive, powerful story, which is what you look for and what you hope for." Lee emphasized that Jelly Roll's application underwent the same rigorous review as others, with no special treatment despite his celebrity status.
Jelly Roll was one of 33 individuals granted executive clemency by Lee on December 18, part of the governor's annual holiday-season tradition. The Tennessee Board of Parole unanimously recommended the pardon in April 2025 following a hearing with supportive testimony from figures like Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall, who has championed the artist's rehabilitation efforts.
The pardon serves as an official statement of forgiveness under Tennessee law, restoring certain civil rights for those who have completed sentences and lived crime-free for at least five years. It does not fully expunge records but is a prerequisite for potential expungement. For Jelly Roll, it addresses practical barriers, including eased international travel for tours and reduced paperwork for faith-based work abroad—issues he highlighted in his application and discussions, such as on Joe Rogan's podcast.
DeFord's criminal history began in his teens, involving repeated incarcerations starting at age 14 for offenses like shoplifting, drug possession, and dealing. The most serious was the 2002 robbery (convicted in 2003), committed unarmed while others in the group carried weapons, leading to an adult trial. A subsequent drug conviction occurred while on probation. He has openly shared these experiences, turning them into themes of hope in hits like "Save Me" and "Need a Favor," and using his platform for advocacy.
Jelly Roll has testified before Congress on the fentanyl crisis, performed at prisons, funded juvenile detention music studios, and supported addiction recovery programs. Supporters, including music executives and civic leaders, submitted statements underscoring his positive impact.
Fans and the music community celebrated the news widely. Jelly Roll's legal team confirmed the pardon, stating it aligns with his message that "change is possible." The artist has yet to issue a personal statement but has long expressed gratitude for second chances.
Governor Lee's clemency decisions excluded anyone with homicide, sex-related offenses, or crimes against minors as adults. The process reflects Lee's interest in rehabilitation, drawn from his pre-governor work in prison reentry programs.
This pardon caps a banner year for Jelly Roll, including Grammy nominations and crossover success blending country, rap, and rock. It reinforces his narrative as an inspiration for those facing similar struggles, proving transformation through music, faith, and community service.
