O.J. Simpson has been granted parole in Vegas robbery case

O.J. Simpson was granted parole after a hearing on Thursday, June 20, 2017. He was serving time in a Nevada prison for a 2007 robbery that took place inside a hotel room at a casino in Las Vegas. Simpson stole thousands of dollars’ worth of his own sports memorabilia from two collectors. He was sentenced to prison for nine to 33 years for that particular crime. He served almost the minimum of his sentence.

Hearing

The decision was made at the end of the 75-minute hearing that was watched by millions. A list of parole guidelines will be given to him shortly.

He is eligible for release as early as October 1 or anytime after that date. Because Simpson wants to live in Florida, that state will also provide its guidelines.

The commissioners were in Carson City while the 70-year-old inmate was miles away at Lovelock Correctional Center in Nevada, where he appeared via video conferencing.

Reasons for release

All four commissioners were consistent with their vote for Simpson to be released. Their decision came quickly without having him wait days, weeks, or even months for a verdict. The decision was based on several factors, including his age, the type of non-violent crime, his prior criminal record, his future plans, and his support system after his release.

The board of commissioners noted that Simpson had been a model prisoner and they are thinking he will also be a model parolee. They took into account that he had no major disciplinary issues. During his remarks, Simpson reminded the panel that he had worked hard to repair his image, and prison has humbled him. He has taken vocational courses, including a computer course.

Besides, he had helped other inmates by coaching them and even leading prayer groups.

Not the first time

This was the second time Simpson had been before the same four board members. He met with them in 2013, and he had already been released from some of the charges against him. Therefore, it was not a surprise that he would receive full parole after Thursday's hearing.

Today's parole hearing was only for the 2007 robbery. However, the public can't forget the 1994 double homicide that was never solved. The board had received thousands of letters asking the commissioners to consider that case in its decision, but the parole board was quite clear that only the robbery would be considered because that was the reason he was serving time. Much more information will be disclosed in the following days concerning today's decision.