Summary Simpson was convicted in October 2008 of armed robbery, assault, and kidnapping. Courtesy: AFP
(Web Desk) - Former American footballer and actor, OJ Simpson is finally being released after serving 9 years in prison.
Simpson is set to walk free in October after being convicted for armed robbery and kidnapping receiving a 33-year sentence which was cut short to 9 years as the four-person panel delivered their verdict.
The former NFL star apologized for his role in a 2007 armed robbery, and said he had been a model prisoner, and promised that he would have no conflicts if released, CNN reported.
He and five accomplices stormed a hotel room to seize memorabilia items which Simpson said belonged to him. He was convicted in 2008 exactly 13 years after he was cleared of killing Nicole Brown Simpson, his former wife and her friend Ron Goldman.
Simpson’s appearance before the court was broadcasted on all TV channels across America and was called as the ‘trial of the century’.
Simpson s case was helped by Fromong, one of the robbery victims, who pleaded on Simpson s behalf."I don’t feel he is a threat to anyone out there. He is a good man. I know he does a lot for other people. I feel that nine and a half, to 33 years, is way too long, The Telegraph reported.
He is expected to have a hard time outside prison since his old life has changed and the stigma of being involved in a murder trial will remain with him forever bringing him more obstacles in his life. Simpson said that he has led a “conflict-free life” and that “I’ve done my time” accepting that he has taken this period as a learning experience.
He has decided to return back to his home in Florida and discussed a few career options for his future after the prison. Simpson has been released for showing an understanding of discipline and by revealing his plans for leading a stable life.
His case had sparked a debate about the US justice system, racism, and celebrity privilege and his release is expected to create a stir once again.
