O.J. Simpson Granted Parole: His Earliest Possible Release Date

After spending almost nine years in prison for armed robbery and kidnapping, O.J. Simpson, 70, will soon be a free man.

The Nevada Board of Parole voted today to grant the former NFL star parole. He could be out as early as October 1.

The decision was partially based on a risk assessment of whether Simpson would re-offend. Some of the factors included his age at first arrest, current age, prior probation or parole revocations, and completion of education or vocational programs.

The board noted that his 1995 acquittal for the murder of ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman, would not be a factor in their decision.

During the hearing, Simpson said, “I want to get back to my kids and family,” and acknowledged that an alternative-to-violence class he attended behind bars had taught him to resolve conflict through communication “rather than throwing punches.”

His daughter Arnelle also made a heartfelt plea for his release, calling him “my best friend and my rock.” One of his victims, Bruce Fromong, also spoke on his behalf. Bruce and O.J. were longtime friends before the robbery.