Former Ohio State RB Maurice Clarett released from probation

Nearly five years after being granted early release from prison, former Ohio State star running back Maurice Clarett was released from probation on Wednesday.

Clarett’s probation was scheduled to end in April but Franklin County (Ohio) Judge David W. Pais wanted to personally end Clarett’s probation before his final day in the position on Friday, so he ended Clarett’s term two months ahead of schedule.

Clarett, who helped the Buckeyes win the 2002 national championship, was convicted on robbery and weapons charges in 2006. He was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison, but was granted his release by Fais in April 2010. Fais then placed him on intensive probation for five years.

According to the Columbus Dispatch, Fais said that Clarett’s transformation is one of the “truly, truly wonderful success stories I’ve had as a judge” in his 26 years.

“I’m not rewarding Mr. Clarett,” Fais said. “Mr. Clarett is rewarding himself by what he accomplished.”

Since his release from prison, Clarett has become a motivational speaker and has shared his story at prisons and youth facilities. He also wrote an autobiography titled, My Life. My Story. My Redemption., and was featured in an ESPN 30 for 30 documentary.

Before his dismissal from Ohio State for receiving extra benefits, Clarett ran for 1,237 yards and 16 touchdowns as a true freshman in 2002. The Denver Broncos later selected him in the third round of the 2004 NFL Draft but he never played a down for the team.

For more Ohio State news, visit BuckeyeGrove.com.

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