Image: Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee gives Jelly Roll news of his official pardon at the Tennessee Residence, December 18, 2025. Image Credit: Courtesy of Brandon Hull / Office of Gov. Bill Lee / Used with Permission
The Center Square [By Kim Jarrett] –
Among the names of 33 people pardoned Thursday by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee was Jason DeFord, but that’s not the name that people would recognize.
Jason DeFord is better known as Jelly Roll, a singer known for such as hits as “Son of a Sinner” and “I Am Not Okay.”
The singer received his pardon in the governor’s residence. Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall appeared with DeFord in April when he petitioned the Tennessee Board of Parole for a pardon. The board approved his request, but the final decision was up to Lee.
DeFord is open about his past arrest. His record shows convictions for robbery and possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute.
To obtain a pardon, the applicant should have been out of prison for more than five years and not under community supervision and demonstrated “exemplary citizenship since the completion of the sentence,” according to the Board of Parole.
DeFord’s name was seventh on the list.
“After thoroughly reviewing the merits of each case, I have decided to grant 33 individuals executive clemency,” Lee said in a release. “Each individual case is unique and warranted consideration, and I thank the Board of Parole members for their thoughtful recommendations throughout this process.”
It’s been a good month for Jelly Roll. Last week it was announced he is joining the Grand Ole Opry.
One Response
Good news for all 33 recipients, who have apparently made amends. Hopefully, they’re on the way to a more satisfying, fulfilling life, rather than resorting to crime. But, one has to wonder how many of the other 32 were able to be in a ‘fire-side photo-op’ with Governor Bill at the peoples mansion?