O.J. Simpson was granted parole on Thursday following more than eight years behind bars for a Las Vegas hotel-room robbery. The decision came after a nationally televised hearing that highlighted America's ongoing fascination with the former football icon.
At age 70, Simpson could be freed as early as October. By then, he will have served the minimum term of his nine-to-33-year sentence for an armed robbery involving an attempted theft of sports memorabilia and other items he asserted had been stolen from him.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you," Simpson said softly, bowing his head with relief. As he stood to return to his cell, he exhaled deeply.
O.J. Simpson’s parole grant reflects both his demonstrated rehabilitation and the public’s sustained interest in his life beyond football.