O.J. Simpson was granted parole on Thursday after serving more than eight years in prison for a Las Vegas hotel-room robbery. The decision followed a nationally televised hearing, highlighting America's ongoing fascination with the former football star.
Simpson, now 70, is eligible for release as early as October, having served the minimum term of his nine-to-33-year sentence. The conviction stemmed from an armed robbery attempt targeting sports memorabilia and other souvenirs Simpson claimed had been stolen from him.
All four parole commissioners who conducted the hearing voted unanimously for his release after a brief deliberation. They noted factors such as Simpson's low risk of reoffending, strong community support, and plans to relocate to Florida.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you," Simpson said quietly as he bowed his head in relief. As he stood to return to his cell, he exhaled deeply.
Simpson's parole marks the potential start of his return to civilian life after a notable legal journey rooted in his celebrity and controversial past.
O.J. Simpson was granted parole after over eight years for a Las Vegas robbery, with unanimous support citing low recidivism risk and release plans including a move to Florida.