Great. Now he can run for President.
9
Claiming "I have led a conflict free life." Spoken like a true Sociopath.
11
Living nine years amongst disproportionately incarcerated blackness, perhaps a free OJ will choose not to further shun blacks.
5
Conflict Free? I guess nine years in the clink does strange things to the mind.
6
Pre-ap English
This article interested me the most because I have learned a lot about O.J. Simpson through many different ways. I think this is very interesting because he says he has basically spent a conflict-free life and he said he was a good guy. Even though he was put on trial for killing his wife and robbery and was convicted of robbery. He says he did not know the other people he was with were armed but I find that hard to believe. Everyone knows he was guilty and he is pointing his finger at other people even though everybody knows he is guilty. But because of a few inconveniences and a bad detective he got off from murder and now gets parole even though he does not deserve. He is not what he claims to be and he deserves to stay in prison.
This article interested me the most because I have learned a lot about O.J. Simpson through many different ways. I think this is very interesting because he says he has basically spent a conflict-free life and he said he was a good guy. Even though he was put on trial for killing his wife and robbery and was convicted of robbery. He says he did not know the other people he was with were armed but I find that hard to believe. Everyone knows he was guilty and he is pointing his finger at other people even though everybody knows he is guilty. But because of a few inconveniences and a bad detective he got off from murder and now gets parole even though he does not deserve. He is not what he claims to be and he deserves to stay in prison.
5
Not good to see that racism is alive and well, even by the esteemed readers of the Times. Finally a black man gets justice from a system rigged against him and others of his color. Well, that is just not good enough for the readers who would rather see him languish in jail even though he was acquitted in the trial that counted. What did these readers say when white cop after white cop brutalizes blacks, shoots them without justification and then gets to walk away as if nothing happened? I suppose these readers express equal vehemence about the millions who have died in the Middle East and Afghanistan at the hands of the mighty "alliance" the past 20 years.
4
OJ rolled kids for their lunch money (including my best friend) back when he was a teen in Potrero Hill in San Francisco. Always has been a thug. But takes a lot of talent to create that wonderful image for the public!
10
Now he can tell everyone that he is a man of convictions.
6
One man's "murder" is another man's "conflict free."
5
Conflict-free other than, well, you know.
5
Nothing will change in his life. He will continue to show his poor behavior. He will be back in jail before you know it. He can't keep under the radar.
7
Please let this be the last OJ story. Let his life play out in the pop culture media that I ignore because I have better things to do with my life.
4
OJ Simpson is not a role model except for how to waste one's life in despicable fashion. He is an expert at that.
4
Just watched the "OJ: Made in America" series.
The fact that the unanimous sigh of relief from the black community over his not guilty has solidified my belief that the "African American" community in America are not worthy of empathy/sympathy.
The fact that the unanimous sigh of relief from the black community over his not guilty has solidified my belief that the "African American" community in America are not worthy of empathy/sympathy.
4
If that is all you got out of that excellent documentary, I suggest watching it again.
Not only did it provide a fascinating look into Simpson's psyche, but more than that, the film showed that the manner of his arrest, trial, and subsequent acquittal was greatly influenced by the volatile atmosphere in Los Angeles from 1992-1994, if not as far back as the Watts riots. The People vs. Orenthal James Simpson did not occur in a vacuum.
From the trial venue to jury selection, to the fact that this was a high-profile personality deeply beloved by the African-American community and respected by others, a lot of variables were at play here that neither the LAPD nor the prosecution handled well, and that the defense exploited brilliantly.
You have to put the case into the context of the times to begin to have any understanding of exactly what happened, if that is possible. I can't excuse the verdict or how it was reached, but it was not an unexpected result, given the charged atmosphere of that time.
Not only did it provide a fascinating look into Simpson's psyche, but more than that, the film showed that the manner of his arrest, trial, and subsequent acquittal was greatly influenced by the volatile atmosphere in Los Angeles from 1992-1994, if not as far back as the Watts riots. The People vs. Orenthal James Simpson did not occur in a vacuum.
From the trial venue to jury selection, to the fact that this was a high-profile personality deeply beloved by the African-American community and respected by others, a lot of variables were at play here that neither the LAPD nor the prosecution handled well, and that the defense exploited brilliantly.
You have to put the case into the context of the times to begin to have any understanding of exactly what happened, if that is possible. I can't excuse the verdict or how it was reached, but it was not an unexpected result, given the charged atmosphere of that time.
6
Oh, My! You just watched something on Television, produced by the sports network, ESPN! Next, you might even start reading books, but only the ones sold in supermarkets -- in the same aisle with all the car magazines, gun magazines, and so forth. But that is not the reason why I am replying to your comment. Rather, it is what I consider a necessary preamble on the mindless commercial entertainment industry which, I am convinced, fosters the kind of primitive emotional sputtering which substitutes for "thinking" in American life and culture. But that's another story.
I spent so many words on the stimulus that set you off and elicited your comment, because YOU brought it right up in your opening line. You then went on to assert (am I interpreting you unfairly?) that the ESPN production effectively confirmed your racism -- not, I would suspect, that your racism had been in any way challenged by doubt, let alone that it might have been in dire need of support or "confirmation."
You stated, in effect, that you are perfectly willing to write off -- and to despise -- the African American community. Not only do you have no qualms about such an egregious leap, but you make it sound like you consider it an intellectual breakthrough.
As you are smug, so I will be smug. You are more than part of the problem. You and others like you ARE the problem.
I spent so many words on the stimulus that set you off and elicited your comment, because YOU brought it right up in your opening line. You then went on to assert (am I interpreting you unfairly?) that the ESPN production effectively confirmed your racism -- not, I would suspect, that your racism had been in any way challenged by doubt, let alone that it might have been in dire need of support or "confirmation."
You stated, in effect, that you are perfectly willing to write off -- and to despise -- the African American community. Not only do you have no qualms about such an egregious leap, but you make it sound like you consider it an intellectual breakthrough.
As you are smug, so I will be smug. You are more than part of the problem. You and others like you ARE the problem.
4
A supreme narcissist who battered and subsequently murdered his wife because no one has the temerity to leave OJ and live to tell the tale. Tack on another murder as collateral damage. Had the jury seen it all play out in real time they still would vote to acquit.
Fast forward to DJT bragging as a presidential hopeful that he could shoot someone and get away with it because he is so beloved. Proves there are racial and socioeconomic parallels among the misinformed, disaffected and truly sad in this country.
Fast forward to DJT bragging as a presidential hopeful that he could shoot someone and get away with it because he is so beloved. Proves there are racial and socioeconomic parallels among the misinformed, disaffected and truly sad in this country.
9
Trump is immediately on the phone with a casting offer on his WH reality show.
1
Begin Qoute
Many white people found his acquittal unthinkable, while many blacks rejoiced and hailed him as a hero.
End Quote
The human mind never ceases to amaze. How could the vast majority of us, white or black, state his acquittal was unthinkable or hail him as a hero. Other than an exceptional tiny part of the population none of these people know with certainty whether he is guilty or not guilty. And, the word "certainty" is used loosely here. Why? "Certainty" has sent many people to prison only to discover at some point down the road they were really innocent.
Mr. Simpson certainly looked guilty but the real point is was he guilty. None of us will ever know. No reason to trash someone when you truly don't know if you're right or wrong. Or, hail him as a hero. It's a sign of a herd mentality and the herd "ain't too bright". I, like most of us, have an opinion as to what took place. None of us know factually whether we are correct or not. Therefore my opinion is meaningless as to his guilt or innocence.
The guy is 70 years old. I don't know if he knew guns were being brought along or not. Things took place that obviously were wrong. I do believe he probably represents a zero threat to the public given the known facts in the case.
I for one am OK with the Board's decision as presumably they know more about the theft than I do. And I'm a white guy. Imagine that...
Many white people found his acquittal unthinkable, while many blacks rejoiced and hailed him as a hero.
End Quote
The human mind never ceases to amaze. How could the vast majority of us, white or black, state his acquittal was unthinkable or hail him as a hero. Other than an exceptional tiny part of the population none of these people know with certainty whether he is guilty or not guilty. And, the word "certainty" is used loosely here. Why? "Certainty" has sent many people to prison only to discover at some point down the road they were really innocent.
Mr. Simpson certainly looked guilty but the real point is was he guilty. None of us will ever know. No reason to trash someone when you truly don't know if you're right or wrong. Or, hail him as a hero. It's a sign of a herd mentality and the herd "ain't too bright". I, like most of us, have an opinion as to what took place. None of us know factually whether we are correct or not. Therefore my opinion is meaningless as to his guilt or innocence.
The guy is 70 years old. I don't know if he knew guns were being brought along or not. Things took place that obviously were wrong. I do believe he probably represents a zero threat to the public given the known facts in the case.
I for one am OK with the Board's decision as presumably they know more about the theft than I do. And I'm a white guy. Imagine that...
1
"I've led a conflict free life" Almost sounds presidential.
7
I suppose it would have been improper to deny parole on the ground that Simpson gave us the Kardashians.
8
Simpson's statement that he has led a "conflict free life" is troubling. A parole board must take into account whether the parolee can constitute a danger to society after being released from prison. He murdered two people and then, once acquitted, and despite all the attention that was focused on him, lived a hardly exemplary life. After a few years, he was arrested and convicted on a felony charge involving firearms.
His cavalier attitude toward what constitutes a conflict-free life is grounds for the parole board to deny him parole as it indicates that he might still be a danger to other people.
His cavalier attitude toward what constitutes a conflict-free life is grounds for the parole board to deny him parole as it indicates that he might still be a danger to other people.
8
Regarding Nicole Simpson (and Mr. Goldman, going by the civil trial) and the robbery charges, Mr. Simpson has a violent nature.
People do not change, unless they undergo some great religious experience or revelation. Their characters just become more extreme as they get older. Let's hope that Mr. Simpson's nature does not take its course once he is freed.
People do not change, unless they undergo some great religious experience or revelation. Their characters just become more extreme as they get older. Let's hope that Mr. Simpson's nature does not take its course once he is freed.
4
The Con Don probably has a place for Mr. Simpson in his "administration".
11
‘Conflict-Free Life’ if you do not count double homicide and armed robbery
9
On the basis of law, it probably was appropriate to grant him parole. As far as living a "conflict-free life" - if that's his version of reality, I know of an "alt-facts" operation with some job openings - he would fit right in.
9
The only way Mr. Simpson can maintain a conflict-free life is to leave women out if it. And sadly, men like Simpson cannot live without using and abusing women to prop up their sense of self worth.
10
Bottom line: Simpson belongs in jail for life with no chance of parole for murdering two people in cold blood. He may have beaten the charges, but jail is where he belongs and everyone who followed the evidence knows it.
9
Based on what was before the Parole board I understand O J being rewarded Parole. I had wished he was more contrite and humble in his statements.
We all have our Views on the Murder charge against Mr. Simpson, but that could not come to play here. I just hope OJ goes away and becomes invisible the way Robert Blake did after his Aquittal.
We all have our Views on the Murder charge against Mr. Simpson, but that could not come to play here. I just hope OJ goes away and becomes invisible the way Robert Blake did after his Aquittal.
8
And Robert Blake was courteous enough to shut up permanently.
2
Watching this man on TV testifying at the parole hearing brought it all back: he is still a sociopath who finds himself charming, basically innocent, and unruffled by guilt or hard time in prison. He does not deserve one more minute of TV time, and I will quickly and persistently change any channel that he appears on.
And already on TV I watched yesterday a couple of black commentators ripping the justice system instead of the man should have been found guilty of a terrible double murder. The scab of the racial divide has been ripped off anew.
Was jury nullification in this particular case really worth it?
And already on TV I watched yesterday a couple of black commentators ripping the justice system instead of the man should have been found guilty of a terrible double murder. The scab of the racial divide has been ripped off anew.
Was jury nullification in this particular case really worth it?
9
Never bet against OJ.
Really? Why is that?
5
Mssrs Simpson and Trump are heroes to their respective fan bases. Yet, they are loathed by everyone else.
7
I can well understand the dismay that greets this decision. But imagine a society in which people are punished based on what people think they did. Where would it end?
10
I think we should all be grateful here for the advances in science since the murders. DNA testing at the time of the Ms Simpson and Mr. Goldman murders was primitive and worse, the jury was not well educated in science at all and were easily manipulated.
The first Simpson trial was a wake up call for law enforcement as well (chain of evidence,etc). Television crimes shows since then, and there have been literally over a thousand various crime show episodes that deal with DNA, have slowly built up the public acceptance of scientific evidence, for both convicting and exonerating those charged. Nowadays, though many of our politicians continue to attack those who are educated, especially scientists, at least forensic science can help find those who are guilty or innocent.
So Simpson spent some time in jail; he received a long jail term for his robbery conviction, which was more like a "European-length" sentence for murder. This may be of little consolation to Nicole and Ron's parents, friends and family, but maybe our society is a little safer now for this horrible Simpson saga.
Simpson like Trump does crave attention. But unlike the President who probably still believes: "I could stand in the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot somebody and I wouldn't lose voters," I assume that other than hosting his own crime talk show, having had a real taste of jail, Simpson will be a better citizen... But remorseful? Who really knows...
The first Simpson trial was a wake up call for law enforcement as well (chain of evidence,etc). Television crimes shows since then, and there have been literally over a thousand various crime show episodes that deal with DNA, have slowly built up the public acceptance of scientific evidence, for both convicting and exonerating those charged. Nowadays, though many of our politicians continue to attack those who are educated, especially scientists, at least forensic science can help find those who are guilty or innocent.
So Simpson spent some time in jail; he received a long jail term for his robbery conviction, which was more like a "European-length" sentence for murder. This may be of little consolation to Nicole and Ron's parents, friends and family, but maybe our society is a little safer now for this horrible Simpson saga.
Simpson like Trump does crave attention. But unlike the President who probably still believes: "I could stand in the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot somebody and I wouldn't lose voters," I assume that other than hosting his own crime talk show, having had a real taste of jail, Simpson will be a better citizen... But remorseful? Who really knows...
8
No the jury had already made up its mind when they decided to be jurors. The joked about how they ordered lunch just so that it would appear that they actually deliberated. And DNA testing was not in its infancy though great strides had been made. No that racist jury knew what the verdict was going to be before a witness took the stand.
5
Potentially the children may think:
My dad, murdered my mom, we lost them both under different circumstances but now we got him back.
The loss and gain here is immense, defies logic and language and cannot be reconciled.
My dad, murdered my mom, we lost them both under different circumstances but now we got him back.
The loss and gain here is immense, defies logic and language and cannot be reconciled.
5
And what does the Goldman family think? They are the real victims in this whole horror story.
4
Arnelle Simpson, the child quoted here as saying she wants her father home, is not the daughter of the murdered Nicole Simpson. Her mother was OJ's first wife.
1
How is the Goldman family more "real" as victims than the kids?
People who complain about his lack of contrition are biased. If his account of the burglary is accurate, then he told the truth; if not, he was a liar. How do these people know for a fact that he wasn't telling the truth? I can only conclude that these people want him to remain in jail because of what they think happened in '93. But how do they know that? He was acquitted. So if he was acquitted, then he should be paroled based on his actions only as they relate to the burglary. If he had been, he wouldn't have been jailed as long as he has. The typical sentence for what he did in Nevada is about 3 years.
Do most of you commenting about the "murder victims" realize he was jailed for armed robbery? Yes the fact that people lost their life is horrible. Should he have spent time in jail for it. If he were convicted, yes. Absolutely. That said he was acquitted. He has spent 9 years in jail for his robbery conviction. He did his time, and followed whatever rules he had to, to be eligible for parole. That is how it works.
7
I watched the 1995 murder trial very attentively.
I'm white, very white. I'm also a big believer in the rule of law and our Constitution. That trial was an overly long farce. The prosecution never
even tried to prove that he killed those people. What it did was try, very very
hard, to forget that and distract the jury by spending lots of time proving that he had indeed visited the crime scene. Absent the Fuhrman factor, they did prove that beyond a reasonable doubt. But had I been on the jury I too would have laughed the case out out of court in 2 hours.
People who claim he should have been convicted didn't closely follow the
TV coverage or don't have a very good idea of what "reasonable doubt" means.
I'm white, very white. I'm also a big believer in the rule of law and our Constitution. That trial was an overly long farce. The prosecution never
even tried to prove that he killed those people. What it did was try, very very
hard, to forget that and distract the jury by spending lots of time proving that he had indeed visited the crime scene. Absent the Fuhrman factor, they did prove that beyond a reasonable doubt. But had I been on the jury I too would have laughed the case out out of court in 2 hours.
People who claim he should have been convicted didn't closely follow the
TV coverage or don't have a very good idea of what "reasonable doubt" means.
3
I too watched intently, am white sat on three juries including a stint as a grand juror. The proof was there, no reasonable doubt for me. The "dream team" took advantage of race and played it to the hilt including the sad stunt of wearing kente cloth ties. Just plain sad. He is guilty as sin of double homicide. He was jailed for other crimes but once a violent man always a violent man. Him finding Jesus in jail is just another sad tactic for getting sympathy.
2
OJ has the same high self-regard as DT. "I have led a conflict free life". Could easily be T script at his parole hearing. Preview of future episodes of Me T.
4
Yes, it appears that he was a model prisoner, and deserved to be paroled. However, he is basically a criminal sociopath and we will soon see what happens next. Don't hold your breath on a successful and crime-free life once outside of prison.
6
At least he finally did some time. He's a sociopath and will likely harm more people when he gets out, but that's our system.
Regarding Nicole and Ron, any sane and rational person knows that unless you want to believe that the evidence was fabricated & planted in some fashion, he got away with those murders.
But in time the law of karma will balance the scales. You just don't know which lifetime that will occur. But many of us sense you pay for what you do at some point. OJ won't be an exception in the long run.
Regarding Nicole and Ron, any sane and rational person knows that unless you want to believe that the evidence was fabricated & planted in some fashion, he got away with those murders.
But in time the law of karma will balance the scales. You just don't know which lifetime that will occur. But many of us sense you pay for what you do at some point. OJ won't be an exception in the long run.
7
Mark Furman pleaded the Fifth when directly asked if he planted evidence. Of course, he was the one who found the glove but any sane person would disregard his testimony.
Simpson is the poster boy for American Justice.
He beat a murder rap because he had so much money.
Then he got the book thrown at him for a much lesser crime because he didn't.
The lesson is clear, in America today, Justice is for sale to the highest bidder. No Money = No justice. And it's proved ten thousand times a day in courts all over the land.
He beat a murder rap because he had so much money.
Then he got the book thrown at him for a much lesser crime because he didn't.
The lesson is clear, in America today, Justice is for sale to the highest bidder. No Money = No justice. And it's proved ten thousand times a day in courts all over the land.
6
Trump has already offered him a job. Because he'll fit in so well.
1
Looks like Trump has his pick for a new Advisor.
More Exceptionalism for America eh ? Our hearts swell with collective pride at the new breed of Amerikan "Heroes"
More Exceptionalism for America eh ? Our hearts swell with collective pride at the new breed of Amerikan "Heroes"
4
What an easy way out for a Killer, and he still smiles.
11
I watched the hearing and, during the short interval between it and the ruling, grazed the snap commentary from the media.
Most TV and print analysts wanted Simpson to show obeisance, which he did not. To me, this says more about them, and about us, than about him.
Is that we expect from a parole-eligible prisoner who has served 9 years? Obeisance? Statements of contrition? Apologies to all concerned? Does sincerity matter?
Simpson and his lawyers made the case for parole. It's an easy one: he's 70 years old, with just the one conviction, a clean prison record and a supportive family for his release. If anyone deserves parole, it's him. But we wanted more. We wanted him to grovel. There's something wrong with us.
Most TV and print analysts wanted Simpson to show obeisance, which he did not. To me, this says more about them, and about us, than about him.
Is that we expect from a parole-eligible prisoner who has served 9 years? Obeisance? Statements of contrition? Apologies to all concerned? Does sincerity matter?
Simpson and his lawyers made the case for parole. It's an easy one: he's 70 years old, with just the one conviction, a clean prison record and a supportive family for his release. If anyone deserves parole, it's him. But we wanted more. We wanted him to grovel. There's something wrong with us.
4
The elite society OJ craves can resume its open, unmistakable shunning of him once he's out.
The Goldmans can hound and harass him for any money he earns to supplement his NFL pension--and he's going to have to earn something to maintain the lifestyle he will want. The entire country will cheer on the Goldmans.
As for the parole board members, they just embarrassed themselves with their fawning and smiles.
The Goldmans can hound and harass him for any money he earns to supplement his NFL pension--and he's going to have to earn something to maintain the lifestyle he will want. The entire country will cheer on the Goldmans.
As for the parole board members, they just embarrassed themselves with their fawning and smiles.
10
Yes.
I'm glad he got paroled. Now he can use his remaining time on Earth to track down the Colombians that killed his wife and her friend.
5
Come on now. The "reality divide" between different groups in the US should by now surprise no one. Fox News and the election of Trump are based on this divide, except in politics the reality divide is even more stark because it reveals people's basic misunderstanding of their everyday lives.
2
He is as delusional, self absorbed, unaware and fact free as you know
9
Well, he finally did it. He got away with it all.
3
Since we still haven't figured out who murdered Nicole Simpson and Ron Goldman even after twenty five years, the Supreme Court should simply declare them as having been lost in a "Sudden Departure." That way, we can continue to trust in our legal system and as DeMent put it, "let the mystery be."
1
I watched the hearing on TV and was disgusted with the panel for letting Simpson free. He promised to go to AA in 2013 and never attended a meeting. His word means nothing. This is a travesty of justice. Conflict free life indeed!
11
I was a young kid and a real OJ fan back in the 1970's. I saw him on TV constantly and even then I thought to myself that he seemed like a truly nice person. He seemed like a happy guy and he seemed to enjoy his blessings. How the current version of this man emerged I'll never know, it's very sad for everyone and it's all his fault.
5
The whole OJ fiasco is a case history of how messed up the entire criminal justice system is in this country.
African Americans know how messed up it is. They're victims of it every day. They are shot in cold blood by police officers. They are denied decent representation in front of a judge, they are a horribly disproportionate percentage of the prison population becuase the system is stacked against them. In Los Angeles at the time of the murders, the cops there had a reputation for beating the daylights out of arrested blacks. The people in South Central and Compton all knew that.
Did they really believe OJ was innocent? Probably not. But they didn't care. It was all about "the system" for them. (OJ had little or nothing to do with his own community. He was always a "white black man.")
His 9 year stretch in Nevada was the system's way of payback for OJ's acquital. It was way out of proportion to the crime. No other person, black or white, would do 9 years for the low grade crime which occurred in Vegas. But this was OJ. Frankly, he should have known better.
So, off to Florida he goes, a living example of a flawed system of justice for some and a symbolic thumb in the eye of "the man" to a lot of others.
African Americans know how messed up it is. They're victims of it every day. They are shot in cold blood by police officers. They are denied decent representation in front of a judge, they are a horribly disproportionate percentage of the prison population becuase the system is stacked against them. In Los Angeles at the time of the murders, the cops there had a reputation for beating the daylights out of arrested blacks. The people in South Central and Compton all knew that.
Did they really believe OJ was innocent? Probably not. But they didn't care. It was all about "the system" for them. (OJ had little or nothing to do with his own community. He was always a "white black man.")
His 9 year stretch in Nevada was the system's way of payback for OJ's acquital. It was way out of proportion to the crime. No other person, black or white, would do 9 years for the low grade crime which occurred in Vegas. But this was OJ. Frankly, he should have known better.
So, off to Florida he goes, a living example of a flawed system of justice for some and a symbolic thumb in the eye of "the man" to a lot of others.
4
Well, the murderer is out now. No doubt lying about what he did and continuing to get over on people.
5
After watching OJ, made in America, the spousal abuse is what stands out for me. Conflict free life??? Huh???
9
In this case, Simpson was convicted for the verdict in the Simpson/Goldman murder case...that's not the way our legal system works. If this can happen to him, how do you guarantee a free trial for yourself? Contain your outrage, and think about what this conviction meant in the first place...a very slippery slope aided my a myopic judge.
3
"A conflict free life"--He must have taken correspondence classes at Trump University while in the can.
9
Ha. It sounds like he's looking forward to his next relationship. We'll see.
4
The justice system did itself a gross disservice with the Nevada conviction. How many celebrities have been given a pass for prosecutable offenses because they were celebrities? Simpson received unfair treatment and the usual absurd overcharging by prosecutors in some misguided attempt to placate white America for his previous acquittal.
White people should be aware that the justice system's foray into this type of "revenge charging" is dangerous and precedent setting. Blacks are the low hanging fruit for establishing extralegal prosecutorial malfeasance and white people should be aware that they are next. A nation of laws, indeed.
White people should be aware that the justice system's foray into this type of "revenge charging" is dangerous and precedent setting. Blacks are the low hanging fruit for establishing extralegal prosecutorial malfeasance and white people should be aware that they are next. A nation of laws, indeed.
4
While I agree with most people that he got away with murder, the reality is he was probably over charged and served far more time than most for this crime. The men arrested with him got no time at all and he got 13 years. Real justice would be if had been convicted for the murders.
5
He was the ring leader and he planned and committed armed robbery. Does not deserve a slap on the wrist. Nine years is not really that bad if you ask me.
3
Simpson did many horrific things to people that no human should have to go through. No matter what race you may be if you did commit the crimes then you should pay the consequences. It doesn't matter if he shows remorse now because when he committed the crimes he wasn't sorry. Therefore it is unfair that he was let out early and just like every other person he should continue being in prison for 33 years not 9
1
Do you feel the same about Casey Anthony, Robert Blake, George Zimmerman?
In time, mr Simpson will have to face a higher authority, until then let him have his obscurity, he basically has no life at this point so it doesn't matter whether he rots in prison or Florida. Either way he's trapped in a prison of his own making
6
I remember a couple of black teachers, who I had respected previously, leaving their classrooms, going out in the hall, and whooping and hollering when OJ was acquitted.
Not only did I view the two teachers quite differently from that day forward, but OJ's acquittal exposed the rampant racism, just below the surface, of people previously considered friends, colleagues, and absolute and total equals. A sad day, but reality is often ugly.
Not only did I view the two teachers quite differently from that day forward, but OJ's acquittal exposed the rampant racism, just below the surface, of people previously considered friends, colleagues, and absolute and total equals. A sad day, but reality is often ugly.
10
Now O.J. can go back to his interrupted task of finding the REAL killers of his wife and Ron Goldman by thoroughly searching every golf course here and abroad.
I see a reality show in the making.
I see a reality show in the making.
9
O.J. - be careful what you wish for. I'm guessing you were safer on the onside than you'll be once free. Based on the comments here, there is obvious pent-up anger that you beat the murder raps.
If you need a place to stay, I'd steer clear of any offers from Bill Cosby. He seems to be a marked man too.
If you need a place to stay, I'd steer clear of any offers from Bill Cosby. He seems to be a marked man too.
5
Florida hits a Trifecta George Zimmerman, Casey Anthony AND O.J. Plus he's the one that started all this Kardashian nonsense.
2
You forgot Robert Blake.
1
Maybe he can fill one of empty posts on the Trump administration.
4
If 45 fires Sessions, OJ could be the new AG.
3
he'll fit in Trump's cabinet nicely
2
We don't care. OJ Simpson doesn't affect our lives one iota. Televising his parole hearing on every network was ridiculous.
But I bet he loved it.
But I bet he loved it.
4
I changed over to HULU!
So it is ok for white cops who shoots and kills unarm black people and almost 100% get no jail time, is that ok?
The crimes that OJ got away with, is just the same as most of these cops are getting away with everyday, some people have no respect for the living, no matter what colour you are, so can we first show some respect for life, and then talk about race after?
The crimes that OJ got away with, is just the same as most of these cops are getting away with everyday, some people have no respect for the living, no matter what colour you are, so can we first show some respect for life, and then talk about race after?
4
I did not know OJ Simpson until I watched the "trial of the century", and "the glove didn't fit". Yes, the glove did NOT fit and he was NOT guilty of that crime. It is between him and God of anything else. On this earth he is NOT guilty and ALL OF US must respect that. Furthermore, his lengthy sentence was outrageous compared to what others were given for the same crime.
From that NOT-GUILTY moment onward, regardless of how many conflicts he had had in his previous life, OJ Simpson should have led a conflict free life. His involvement in the conspiracy of robbery to get his memorabilia was a monumental error. With the celebrity status that he had at that time, he could have recovered fully from that meat grinder of the "trial of the century" and even his civil trial losses. Not sure if had appealed that case.
When he leaves this prison on October 1st, he will still be on PAROLE. He is not free. He will still have to answer to some parole officer who would have it in his power to return him to prison.
My two cents for OJ Simpson are to leave that Prison with a commitment to never return. Truly live a "conflict-free" life and with the remaining days he has on this planet make something. It is NEVER too late to make something of oneself. I see him today looking a bit old and this is from all the time in the prison. Prison life is not conducive to keeping someone young and healthy, however OJ Simpson looks handsome and I sincerely wish him the very best.
From that NOT-GUILTY moment onward, regardless of how many conflicts he had had in his previous life, OJ Simpson should have led a conflict free life. His involvement in the conspiracy of robbery to get his memorabilia was a monumental error. With the celebrity status that he had at that time, he could have recovered fully from that meat grinder of the "trial of the century" and even his civil trial losses. Not sure if had appealed that case.
When he leaves this prison on October 1st, he will still be on PAROLE. He is not free. He will still have to answer to some parole officer who would have it in his power to return him to prison.
My two cents for OJ Simpson are to leave that Prison with a commitment to never return. Truly live a "conflict-free" life and with the remaining days he has on this planet make something. It is NEVER too late to make something of oneself. I see him today looking a bit old and this is from all the time in the prison. Prison life is not conducive to keeping someone young and healthy, however OJ Simpson looks handsome and I sincerely wish him the very best.
4
He can not help himself. He is a self absorbed sick man
1
Agreed. With his resources he can find a non-profit cause to engage in.
It is more correct to say Simpson was FOUND not guilty rather than he "was NOT GUILTY" because jury nullification played a bigger part in this trial that the evidence that this bloody awful man slaughtered two people to death with sadistic rage and murderous intent.
I couldn't care less about O.J. As an African-American male I think he's one of the most narcissistic, egotistical, immoral, and selfish human beings to come along in a long time. His disdain for his own people and their very real struggles never made him a hero to me, or someone to look up to. If he had not been granted parole I would not have shed a tear.
I believed before the trial and after he was as guilty as sin of murdering Nicole and Ron. It wasn't the evidence that acquitted O.J. but the glaring racism of the L.A. Police Department and the incompetence of the prosecutors and investigators. While I feel so sorry for Ron and Nicole, and their families, I find it hard to feel sympathy for the litany of white men claiming to be so broken up about a miscarriage of justice. Are they as broken up about the tens of thousands of black people lynched and tortured without a trial at the hands of whites after slavery and up until the 1950s? Or the many unarmed blacks, including women and children, killed by Police? I think not. Are the lives of African-Americans, and other minorities, any less precious to their loved ones than Ron's and Nicole's. When these O.J. haters show that "All Lives Truly Matter" I'll be more apt to feel some sympathy toward their cries of injustice.
I believed before the trial and after he was as guilty as sin of murdering Nicole and Ron. It wasn't the evidence that acquitted O.J. but the glaring racism of the L.A. Police Department and the incompetence of the prosecutors and investigators. While I feel so sorry for Ron and Nicole, and their families, I find it hard to feel sympathy for the litany of white men claiming to be so broken up about a miscarriage of justice. Are they as broken up about the tens of thousands of black people lynched and tortured without a trial at the hands of whites after slavery and up until the 1950s? Or the many unarmed blacks, including women and children, killed by Police? I think not. Are the lives of African-Americans, and other minorities, any less precious to their loved ones than Ron's and Nicole's. When these O.J. haters show that "All Lives Truly Matter" I'll be more apt to feel some sympathy toward their cries of injustice.
27
"Are they as broken up about the tens of thousands of black people lynched and tortured without a trial at the hands of whites after slavery and up until the 1950s? Or the many unarmed blacks, including women and children, killed by Police? I think not." -
Then you're hanging out with the wrong white men. Get some new friends.
Then you're hanging out with the wrong white men. Get some new friends.
2
I'm sure as soon as he's gotten some golf in he'll be back on that search for the real killers.
1
For US society, OJ Simpson was a very significant historical moment. It was the moment that defined the next chapter of our racial divisions. Our true human race/culture based prejudices were exposed. And we all have them. It was also the moment when media became a consumer and sales based business rather than a profession. Passions have likely cooled for the latest OJ chapter, much to the dismay of the profit based news brokers. We all know he did it, and my what a whale of a story.
1
Nine years for using a firearm in the commission of a crime is hardly justice. How can people propose laws that would take guns from the hands of law abiding citizens while abiding the release of Simpson after serving only nine years?
3
there is a racial dimension, hence it is OK.
How long will it be before there's another incident of road rage or domestic violence? Conflict-free life? Since when?
3
I knew Simpson would be paroled so I didn't watch the hearing but I heard several sources mention one of the parole officers on the board that was deciding whether the offender would be granted parole was wearing a Kansas City Chiefs tie. Given the offender's previous life as a star pro football player that was off the wall inappropriate. Of all the ties in the world he had to wear a football-themed one. Whether he was trying to impress the offender or show off on TV he should be disciplined.
3
Of all the ties in the world he had to wear a football-themed one.
what if he wore a soccer of hockey themed tie?
what if he wore a soccer of hockey themed tie?
The decision to approve parole was the correct one. The judgement for the supposed crimes committed was extremely harsh, and seemed influenced by the previous ruling to acquit in the LA murder trial of his wife. The two crimes can not be linked together, and the judgement of the parole board was fair. Whatever moral reasonings regarding OJ one might have, the decision was just and fair.
2
With all the pluses working for him - $25k monthly NFL pension, Hollywood pension, homestead in Florida - no doubt in my mind that he will again be in trouble within two years - major trouble -
4
Praying to God that he proves you wrong!
The era of black lives matter and a phenomenally LOW amount of incidents you describe ,is what's dividing our country. OJ just a small divergence.In terms of total encounters , our law enforcement is the fairest in the world.
those who seek to play the identity/racial card do not see it that way though.
1
He appears to be suffering from a Brain Injury which causes him to not be able to follow what is being said. Brain Injuries caused by repeated Concussions to he head definitely changes the way a person thinks. See the Phineas Gage Skull at the Museum at Harvard. After a spike from a railroad Track was impaled through his skull, He became aggressive and ended up homeless. OJ has clearly been aggressive and if he has that type of Brain Injury he is NOT able to control his deadly Anger. Also read 'Descartes Error' by Antonio deMasio who is a Neurologist and a Philosopher. Sheds a lot of light on this particular issue, OJ remains a danger!
5
The man has suffered mentally and financially for what he did or didn't do.May his remaining years be blessed with peace of mind and the surrounding love of his family and friends. Good luck OJ.
4
he did not suffer as much as his victims though. Do you agree?
4
I love his explanation for moving to Florida; to be near his family. But it's not the real one. Because of Florida's extremely liberally exemption laws, Simpson's assets are virtually untouchable by creditors, i.e. the Browns and the Goldmans.
Because of these exemptions, even with a present estate worth over half a million dollars, and an income from the NFL in the neighborhood of $2,500 per month, the courts cannot reach any of this to pay the damages awarded in his civil suit.
Family? No, money and a good supply of golf courses.
Because of these exemptions, even with a present estate worth over half a million dollars, and an income from the NFL in the neighborhood of $2,500 per month, the courts cannot reach any of this to pay the damages awarded in his civil suit.
Family? No, money and a good supply of golf courses.
8
He did the time. Now let's see if Florida accepts him.
Other than his pension, any income he makes goes to pay off the civil judgement. He's back to playing golf and hanging out.
Other than his pension, any income he makes goes to pay off the civil judgement. He's back to playing golf and hanging out.
1
He was ordered to pay 33 million in a wrongful death civil suit. He moved to Florida where it is against state law to garnish one's retirement annuity.
3
bill, in all states it is illegal to garnish retirement in civil suits with few exceptions (i.e., student loans, IRS judgements being the most prominent).
Had they found him guilty of Nicole's murder, he would be getting out anyway. All of these criminals are let out early for good behavior. That is what it comes down to. It is unfortunate but true. They all get out early each one is a model prisoner (for the most part). Watch crime shows.
2
You're joking, right? Convicted murderers almost never receive parole in CA. Less than 10 a year.
He had a really good (expensive) lawyer for the other thing and got off.
This one was just about an armed robbery (Why didn't he call the cops to come help him get his stuff back?).
Maybe the media can exercise some restraint here and refuse to employ him as a 'guest', 'commentator' or 'reality TV star'. And if they don't maybe the public can exercise their right not to watch whatever he is on.
This one was just about an armed robbery (Why didn't he call the cops to come help him get his stuff back?).
Maybe the media can exercise some restraint here and refuse to employ him as a 'guest', 'commentator' or 'reality TV star'. And if they don't maybe the public can exercise their right not to watch whatever he is on.
9
OJ has served and deserve the right to be freed. But unlike the many rogue cops, even recorded murder via videos, ruled "not guilty".. NO PUBLIC OUTRAGE OR VINDICTIVE ANGER TOWARD THEM. WHY NOT?
OJ will be taunted and hunted by that angry 'lynch mob'(privileged society) releasing those hungry bloodhounds to relentlessly hunt and gnaw to bits
that 'black man' that successfully escaped their 'noose' ..
OJ will be taunted and hunted by that angry 'lynch mob'(privileged society) releasing those hungry bloodhounds to relentlessly hunt and gnaw to bits
that 'black man' that successfully escaped their 'noose' ..
4
OJ Simposn murder trial (1994) was the most controversial trial in US history due to race issues. Folks called it 'trial of the century'. The jury finally gave 'no guilty' verdict due to defense team relentless effort which was lead by Johnny Cochran... 'the glove that didn't fit' metaphor. However, OJ got a trial by civil court for the wrongful death of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman and lost his all money in the verdict. He was vindictively prosecuted in this gun brandishing case and he is behind bars for almost nine years on frivolous charges. He could have gone 'scot fee' if he was a white folk in this particular case. OJ carried a baggage of Nicole and Ron's tragic deaths which he was acquitted by jury but has to spend long nine years in jail in gun brandishing case; Its mockery of the justice.
America is still divided on race issue and sadly enough folks judge OJ based on their racial divide!!
America is still divided on race issue and sadly enough folks judge OJ based on their racial divide!!
1
No, I judge him as a vicious murderer and wife- beater who has now served his time for his latest crime and should therefore be released. He is congenitally incapable of being a glory hound and an arrogant showoff, although his age might protect him from committing any more hand- to- hand murders. Anyone who claims he was prosecuted for murder because of his race is deluded.
1
"His 9 year stretch in Nevada was the system's way of payback for OJ's acquital. It was way out of proportion to the crime. No other person, black or white, would do 9 years for the low grade crime which occurred in Vegas. But this was OJ. Frankly, he should have known better."
Bob from Burns
Bob from Burns
Ah, yes! The man who beat the system - several times. At this point, Simpson would not recognize truth or facts if the bit him in a tender spot. He has managed to manufacture his own version of truth, so well, and sell it to the public for so long, that he probably believes it himself. What a charmed life he has led! In the most simple of terms, has scammed the system and won, several times. A few Black folks believe him, but even they see it as pay-back, not genuine justice. Nevada, California or Florida are welcome to him. Should he set foot a bit more north, his days may be numbered. If he is to be released on October 1 as indicated, by the 15th this thug will back on the links and quietly thumbing his nose at us and the judicial system that gave him a free ride for decades. If he has even half a brain (questionable) he will display a low profile and keep his mouth shut for all time. He has nothing that we want and no redeeming qualities that I can see. The man is worthless trash; he knows it - and we know it. IMO,,, the Nevada Prole board should have required that her serve his entire sentence and most likely died in prison. Simpson is Black Trash with a little money - and no more. Absolute trash, leaving an obvious taint on the millions of Black citizens who DO conform to our general norms. Trash!
3
The OJ Simpson case was horrific - Nicole was almost decapitated - but an endless source of dark fascination. It eclipsed fictional murder in its complexity and sordidness - stabbing deaths, blood and dna, squabbling attorneys - two prosecutors who might have had sex, race, adultery, lesbianism, drugs, a car chase, an aborted suicide, a racist cop, a limousine, a knit hat, a dog that didn't bark, a glove that didn't fit, designer shoes, a judge whose wife could have been a witness, etc. You could easily go on.
The failures of the murder investigation are well known. But, one thing rarely reported on was the incompetence of the attorneys on both sides. With the exception of the two New York Innocence Project lawyers, Scheck and Neufeld and to some degree Robert Shapiro, I was appalled at the seeming lack of trial ability of the prosecution and "dream team." Vincent Bugliosi, the famous prosecutor, who wrote a long book on the case, felt similarly Darden made his famous glove mistake and both he and Clark were easily ruffled, famed F. Lee Bailey humiliated himself, Johnny Cochran seemed to have no cross-examination skills (he didn't even come up with "if it doesn't fit, you must acquit") and the judge's rulings were sometimes appalling.
While most people feel sure he is a murderer (I do). he was acquitted. But he was later punished for it by being prosecuted for robbery of his own property when almost everyone else involved was let go. Some see justice in that. I don't.
The failures of the murder investigation are well known. But, one thing rarely reported on was the incompetence of the attorneys on both sides. With the exception of the two New York Innocence Project lawyers, Scheck and Neufeld and to some degree Robert Shapiro, I was appalled at the seeming lack of trial ability of the prosecution and "dream team." Vincent Bugliosi, the famous prosecutor, who wrote a long book on the case, felt similarly Darden made his famous glove mistake and both he and Clark were easily ruffled, famed F. Lee Bailey humiliated himself, Johnny Cochran seemed to have no cross-examination skills (he didn't even come up with "if it doesn't fit, you must acquit") and the judge's rulings were sometimes appalling.
While most people feel sure he is a murderer (I do). he was acquitted. But he was later punished for it by being prosecuted for robbery of his own property when almost everyone else involved was let go. Some see justice in that. I don't.
2
My favorite article this week is “ Oj Simpson to get parole after serving 9 years in prison.” This is my favorite article mmthis week because it is going to be interesting to see where he takes his life from prison when he gets out on October first. Will he do what is recommended by mlst and remain unseen and below the radar or will his known ego take over and shove him back into the spotlight begging for attention or even may back to crime as a way to get attention. It is also interesting as they go back through OJs crime written past. From his original murder trial which was responsible for so much controversy to the kidnapping and theft trial that put him away . It is also cool to read about how he was responsible for kardashians rise to fame. I am very interested to see what he does with the remainder of his life and where he goes from here and this is why this article is my favorite article this week.
If nothing else, he can reboot the search for Nicole's real murderer.
For the crime he was in jail for he served his time. There can be no disputing that, and his release was based on those facts. His prior crimes for which he was found innocent had nothing to do with this case.
Yet, we all know a murderer is now walking our streets. He's not the only one but certainly the most well known. The two cases illustrated the justice system at work, failing once and succeeding now.
His release must be tearing apart the Brown and Goldman families, who will never be released from the pain and suffering of losing their children.
Yet, we all know a murderer is now walking our streets. He's not the only one but certainly the most well known. The two cases illustrated the justice system at work, failing once and succeeding now.
His release must be tearing apart the Brown and Goldman families, who will never be released from the pain and suffering of losing their children.
12
"His prior crimes for which he was found innocent had nothing to do with this case."
He was not found "innocent", he was found "not guilty". There are critical differences. He served 9 years for basically a burglary. There were guns but he didn't have one. The Nev judge and prosecutors did the best they could but it was a given he would eventually be released. He is now and will always be a danger. He's also not too smart, good chance he violates.
He was not found "innocent", he was found "not guilty". There are critical differences. He served 9 years for basically a burglary. There were guns but he didn't have one. The Nev judge and prosecutors did the best they could but it was a given he would eventually be released. He is now and will always be a danger. He's also not too smart, good chance he violates.
2
Any woman who dates this guy now should be very wary. He's a know wife-beater, and worse.
3
I see that there a some comments applauding the release of this murderer. I vehemently disagree. Our country has become one where if you are wealthy, and hire the best legal defense team available, you will either never be convicted or will receive a slap on the wrist. Law enforcement unfortunately has become a haven for cowardly goons that kill people. Defense lawyers that agree to represent the misfits in our society have no morals or ethics. The parole board should be ashamed of their decision. It will come back to haunt them.
5
never mind the unmentionalbe past, giving this character parole from jail on his armed robbery conviction was a joke, his performance (with the parole board behaving as backup singers), a mix of revision, justification and self-promotion gave the lie, literally and figuratively, to any semblance of remorse and acceptance of responsibility.
5
Proof beyond a reasonable doubt is not proof to an absolute certainty. Numerically it's something like 9 times out of 10. Reasonableness is a subjective standard drawn from an historical cataloging of our interactions with stimuli in our enviroments. The interactions white folks have with police foster the belief that it is not reasonable to believe the police would frame an innocent man. The interactions Black folks have foster quite the opposite belief.
By the time Simpson's trial reached the if-it-doesn't-fit-you-must-acquit moment his dream defense team had shot holes in all of the state's evidence, including the be-all-and-end-all DNA evidence. So, for the jurors, the question of beyond-a-reasonable-doubt guilt kind of turned on whether or not they thought it reasonable that the police would sureptiously move evidence from the crime secene to Simpson's residence.
Even the racist-tapes impeachment of Furman was not enough to move the white folks to think it reasonable that the cops would frame Simpson. For the black folks the Furman Tapes, the non-fitting gloves, the undermined DNA and the lack of any eye witnesses placing Simpson anywhere near the scene was enough to prevent them from getting to 9 times out of 10. 8, perhaps. 7, yes. 6, definitely. But not quite 9! Probably guilty, yes. Most probably guilty, yes. But not guilty beyond a reasonable doubt!
By the time Simpson's trial reached the if-it-doesn't-fit-you-must-acquit moment his dream defense team had shot holes in all of the state's evidence, including the be-all-and-end-all DNA evidence. So, for the jurors, the question of beyond-a-reasonable-doubt guilt kind of turned on whether or not they thought it reasonable that the police would sureptiously move evidence from the crime secene to Simpson's residence.
Even the racist-tapes impeachment of Furman was not enough to move the white folks to think it reasonable that the cops would frame Simpson. For the black folks the Furman Tapes, the non-fitting gloves, the undermined DNA and the lack of any eye witnesses placing Simpson anywhere near the scene was enough to prevent them from getting to 9 times out of 10. 8, perhaps. 7, yes. 6, definitely. But not quite 9! Probably guilty, yes. Most probably guilty, yes. But not guilty beyond a reasonable doubt!
1
"Reasonable doubt" isn't "beyond all doubt." The young man who was a law student at the time nailed it: It was payback.
1
Even the racist-tapes impeachment of Furman was not enough to move the white folks to think it reasonable that the cops would frame Simpson
maybe you can ask how the Koreans felt during the Rodney King riots when they were attacked en masse by black rioters. This was the worst pogrom of the late 20th century in the US. Yet today it has been whitewashed from history.
maybe you can ask how the Koreans felt during the Rodney King riots when they were attacked en masse by black rioters. This was the worst pogrom of the late 20th century in the US. Yet today it has been whitewashed from history.
1
This sentence always was a proxy for the murder rap that he beat.
He belongs in a mental hospital, not in jail, and because he won't likely get the medical help he needs, he'll likely be back in jail soon enough.
He belongs in a mental hospital, not in jail, and because he won't likely get the medical help he needs, he'll likely be back in jail soon enough.
4
My sympathies lie with the Goldman and Brown families. Especially Mr. Goldman. It was a great injustice that Simpson escaped prosecution on the murders because of the long misdeeds of the LA Police and the Rodney King verdict. It was the jury's way of trying to right those wrongs. But Mr. Goldman lost a son and had nothing to do with the injustices to African Americans in LA County.
I hope that more financial pressure can be placed on Simpson from the wrongful Death lawsuit verdict and he will once again be forced into doing something that will get him sent to prison again. Hopefully for the rest of his life.
I hope that more financial pressure can be placed on Simpson from the wrongful Death lawsuit verdict and he will once again be forced into doing something that will get him sent to prison again. Hopefully for the rest of his life.
2
It was a great injustice that Simpson escaped prosecution on the murders because of the long misdeeds of the LA Police and the Rodney King verdict.
don't forget to mention the racism of the black jurists who could never find him guilty because of his race.
don't forget to mention the racism of the black jurists who could never find him guilty because of his race.
1
As long as his utter failure to control himself doesn't hurt anyone, I'm with you. He's just a thug who could throw a ball.
1
Not Racism as much as the opportunity of the Jury to take all the frustrations from the injustice that they saw around them from the Daryl Gates led LA police Dept. and a Simi Valley jury in the Rodney King case. Though OJ Simpson was by no means representative of African Americans in LA, he was the beneficiary of their frustration.
My comment was to voice my sympathy for the Goldman and Brown families and wishes for some justice in the Murder of their children.
My comment was to voice my sympathy for the Goldman and Brown families and wishes for some justice in the Murder of their children.
In the main picture for this article, the African-American male at the right in blue resembles a USC football I remember from the late 1960's. Does anyone remember his name? All I remember is, back in his college days, he could slash through defenses like a sharpened blade.
4
Ironically, there has been no smoking gun to prove O.J to crime of killing his ex wife and her friend Ron. However, he did something stupid and now he paying his nine years. If there is a God whoever killed Ron and Nicole will get there judgment by Adonai above. Nicole and Ron were human beings and were rob by their lives. Did O.J. Did it? We will never know for now.
1
We know it. He did it. It's not rocket science.
3
I always felt that Simpson was guilty of the murders, but the horribly distorted racial dynamics at that time in Los Angeles, tainted justice and enabled him to be acquitted.
I have no doubt that the excessive 33 year sentence that Simpson received for the robbery in Las Vegas was society's way of retroactively punishing him for the murders--especially since his accomplices who actually carried and brandished the guns got very light sentences in keeping with the true nature of the actual crime committed--which was him trying to get back his property that had been stolen from him. I was okay with that sentencing disparity at the time.
However he was in fact sentenced (though excessively) for the Las Vegas robbery and that crime alone, and has been a model prisoner. If the Las Vegas judicial/parole system has any integrity at all given all the facts of the crime, his behavior while incarcerated, and his potential to reoffend, it had no choice but to parole him.
And I have no problem with that.
I have no doubt that the excessive 33 year sentence that Simpson received for the robbery in Las Vegas was society's way of retroactively punishing him for the murders--especially since his accomplices who actually carried and brandished the guns got very light sentences in keeping with the true nature of the actual crime committed--which was him trying to get back his property that had been stolen from him. I was okay with that sentencing disparity at the time.
However he was in fact sentenced (though excessively) for the Las Vegas robbery and that crime alone, and has been a model prisoner. If the Las Vegas judicial/parole system has any integrity at all given all the facts of the crime, his behavior while incarcerated, and his potential to reoffend, it had no choice but to parole him.
And I have no problem with that.
5
Can someone please explain how his 1989 conviction for spousal abuse does not equate to him having a criminal history or criminal record?
6
No doubt something to due with his having led a "conflict-free life."
And how does that conviction factor into his "conflict-free life"?
1
Now he and his supporters are free to pursue the "real killers" who have hitherto escaped justice due to official incompetence and/or systemic racism...and all that.
1
At least he didn't sit in his cell eating bonbons all day (surely Hadley no commissary
issues) . Instead of intimidating fellow inmates & prison personnel; he created & orchestrated fellowship, a softball league consisting of 18 teams within the facility, and possessed the ability to diffuse the tensions between inmates with reasoning skills. I hope he continues to mentor inmates once he's out; to avoid recidivism & continual support /morale of the inmates .
issues) . Instead of intimidating fellow inmates & prison personnel; he created & orchestrated fellowship, a softball league consisting of 18 teams within the facility, and possessed the ability to diffuse the tensions between inmates with reasoning skills. I hope he continues to mentor inmates once he's out; to avoid recidivism & continual support /morale of the inmates .
5
Back in the 90's just before the OJ trial I had a secretary who would have Limbaugh on the radio within earshot. One day Rush was talking about how OJ once ran into him on the golf course and struck up a conversation told about how much he liked his show and agreed with his politics. When you think of it it's not too surprising. Probably impressed with each other's shallowness.
4
Now he can resume his search for the real killers.
5
Next stop...working in the trump admin.
5
he has a $25,000 NFL pension, not very likely.
Probably the right thing to,parole him. But, I sincerely hope to never read or hear anything about him ever again.
2
I really hope he doesn't get a dime for any TV show, interview, book, made for TV movie, appearance, or talk after this.
20
Any money he gets has to go to the families of his victims.
You needn't worry. Only Fox News does that, and only for creeps such as Oliver North or Mark Fuhrman.
1
That a system allows two different trials (criminal and civil) for the same case, where the burden of proof is different is in itself an absurdity.
13
as criminal trials have an impact on a person's freedom and greater impact on life, they have to have a higher threshold of evidence and proof than civil trials.
1
Simpson must be treated as are all others sentenced for a specific crime. While it does seem likely he was acquitted of murder due to jury nullification, he was acquitted and must legally considered innocent of that crime. Here he was convicted of a lesser crime and will be paroled for it.
9
OJ Was found not guilty at his murder trial, not innocent.
3
O.J. was sentenced to 33 years for attempting to retrieve his property. The two other individuals involved had weapons and were given parole. This was never about justice. It was vengeance.
24
Let's not forget that someone else had 'his' property only because his friends and family hid it along with every other thing of value he owned to keep it from the Goldman's. The civil court ruled that he owed the Goldman's and Brown's $33 million for slitting the throats of their children.
1
I am heartened to see O.J. “The Juice” Simpson released from prison. He is one of the greatest athletes of all time. At USC he starred in football and track and field. On the track he won two NCAA championships in the 4X110 yard relay in 1967 and 1968. In 1967 Simpson ran on the USC team that established a world record of 38.6 seconds in the 4X110 yard relay, which still stands since the race is no longer contested. Simpson is a world record holder! After winning the Heisman Trophy in 1968, Simpson went on to an illustrious career in professional football with the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers. Five times, from 1972-1976, he went to the Pro-Bowl, each time as a first team Pro Bowler. Simpson led the NFL in rushing in 1972, 1973, 1975, 1979, and in rushing touchdowns in 1973 and 1975. In 1973 he became the first player to rush for over 2000 yards in a single season, reaching 2003 yards in the last game of the season, on a seven yard run against the New York Jets. I remember that game as if were yesterday. His achievement came when the NFL season lasted only 14 not 16 games. Yes, the Juice is loose, and I wish him the best of luck in his life out of prison.
14
So because he was an athlete he shouldn't be held accountable? I don't care what he did in his athletic life he should not be granted parole or good luck unless he met all the requirements. After he narrowly got off for killing his ex wife and her friend he should of quietly disappeared and paid his civil penalties. But no, he committed another crime. He should not be remembered as a great athlete but a crook and a domestic violent perp. Don't forget Nicole Brown had evidence of her abuse. People who think athletes are heroes need to think again.
40
He did not commit "another crime".
1
You left out the double murder part of his life, thanks for the update on his sports accomplishments.
5
What is there to say about OJ Simpson's life. It's been a tragedy for his family, the man himself of course and most importantly his murdered wife. Alas, talent and success is no guarantee of happiness and peace of mind.
13
Even more tragic for Ron Goldman and his family. Why didn't you mention him?
3
Free OJ set to resume long dormant film career set to portray Tom Robinson along with Fred Goldman as Tom Ewell in blockbuster remaking of To Kill a Mockingbird.
5
A picture paints a thousand words !
4
Evidence points to O.J. having been at the scene of the murder and returning home by scaling a wall on his property rather than by entering the front door. It is disheartening that some people regard the not guilty verdict as fair payback for generations of a biased justice system. That perspective, professed by a law student no less, is so lacking a sense of justice, that I do despair that we can ever expect to see the end of racism. Nicole's and O.J.'s children are also victims.
9
Trump just signed him to be the Generals starting running back next season.
6
Anyone who believes that he is not the same narcissistic person who does not take responsibility for any of the criminal things he's done is deluding themselves.All you had to do is listen to how he answered questions about the crime (i.e. still denying that he order his "security" to bring guns with them) and making statement like he's led a "conflict-free life" when it has been documented that he physically abused Nicole during their marriage).But apparently taking responsibility for your crime is not a prerequisite to getting parole in the state of Nevada.So anyone who believes that he still does not have the potential to be a danger in society is either naive or in denial about who O.J. Simpson really is.Unless he dies before the end of his 5 year parole term or before he has the chance to do so I believe that he will violate his terms of parole.Whether or not that will lead to him going back to prison I don't know.But I don't think he is able to stay out of legal trouble.He already turned down help while in prison that may have helped him stay out of trouble.It was suggested that he take an alcohol abuse class because he had been drinking before the commission of some of his offenses.However, he doesn't think he has a problem with alcohol so he didn't do it.One of his conditions of parole is no alcohol or illegal drugs.So we'll see.
18
Perhaps he could now pursue a career in politics. President O.J. anyone? It could be a means to introduce American Football to Russia.
11
The man who repeatedly beat Nikole was the man who murdered her and her friends. The man who murdered her tried to make money off his hideous crime, "If I had done It". This is human without humanity. The decision came back the in maybe less than 2 hours. I thought they were joking when they said a decision had been reached. At that time, their were dim-witted women looking for fame to throw themselves at this evil. When will we stop being deceived by wealth or power? Doesn't look like it will be anytime soon as the masquerade goes on.
15
He was acquitted. If you are concerned about people walking free who ought to be in prison, you should focus on Trump and his entire crew of enablers.
1
Acquittal doesn't mean innocent, and he was also found liable for slaughtering two innocent people. Trump is a slimy criminal, but as far as I know he hasn't tried to decapitate Marla or Ivana.
2
He should be released to the custody of Fred Goldman.
35
I did not think Simpson should be locked up for trying to recover stolen goods. I have had too many experiences where police did not respond or co-operate. It was not possible for me to criticize Simpson for trying.
7
9 years for armed robbery and kidnapping? Disgusting.
8
Almost as disgusting as six months for rape... the system is rigged and everyone knows it, people are upset that he managed to beat the system. Furthermore Juice was trying to get back his stuff which was stolen from him, how far would a person go for their personal possessions is beyond me, but as I've stated far more people get a lesser sentence for worse crimes.
3
Wait a minute. Hasn't the sentence "I basically have spent a conflict free life" already been trademarked by Donald Trump?
20
So many comments about racism but so few about domestic violence. The trial may have become about a black man killing white people but the murders were a domestic abuser, a man, killing the woman he thought his property (and the man he considered to have trespassed on his territory). Maybe if people didn't blame the victim in these cases and see a man harrasing and assaulting his wife or ex wife as a private issue, or not a big deal, or as some kind of reasonable reaction on his part, something would have been done about oj's behavior before he killed Nicole and Ron. Not to mention the (anonymous) women and children who are murdered every day around the world by abusive men.
26
Stop being obtuse. The whole OJ trial was about RACE.
If Nicole was a black woman, it wouldn't have been the "trial of the century." All those domestic violence folks wouldn't have come to Nicole's defense if she was black. When was the last time a black women generated much public compassion in America anyway?
This was purely about race and the polarized reactions to the verdict clearly proved it: Black women celebrated it while white women raged with anger. There's never been any kind of sisterhood between these two groups in America.
We've also seen it in politics: 94 percent of black women voted for Hillary while 53 percent of white women voted for Trump.
If Nicole was a black woman, it wouldn't have been the "trial of the century." All those domestic violence folks wouldn't have come to Nicole's defense if she was black. When was the last time a black women generated much public compassion in America anyway?
This was purely about race and the polarized reactions to the verdict clearly proved it: Black women celebrated it while white women raged with anger. There's never been any kind of sisterhood between these two groups in America.
We've also seen it in politics: 94 percent of black women voted for Hillary while 53 percent of white women voted for Trump.
1
99.99 percent of the African American Community votes Democratic.
Watching the hearing I began to feel sympathetic towards OJ, then I slapped some sense into myself!
I do wonder if he suffers from football-related chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which has led to player suicides and other debilitating symptoms, and maybe in his case murder.
I do wonder if he suffers from football-related chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which has led to player suicides and other debilitating symptoms, and maybe in his case murder.
3
So unfortunate that he took others lives instead of his own.
18
At 70, he's probably too expensive for the Department of Corrections to take care of.
8
Another narcissist on the loose (besides the one we elected). Do I see a guest shot on one of Kardashian reality shows? Why, oh why, are we so fascinated by these outrageous self-promoters every time?
14
Did O.J. cut the throats of two people leaving only Mark Furman's "discovered" thimble of blood? No doubt, OJ paid or knew the actual killer, however the vaunted prosecution team never came close to proving OJ or any amateur knife slayer could have killed two people, gone home, dressed and boarded a plane within two hours. OJ should be in jail for the rest of his life. The Nevada parole upsets more than confident white folks. Confidence and lacking evidence would get OJ off in '95 and '17.
1
He knew the killer; " the chase" & incriminating evidence to deter authorities/investigators/media towards him. True Crime Tuesdays on doctor Oz truly presented some stellar details (Jan 2017 show).
I just can't wait to see what wacky antics he'll come up with next.
4
Regarding the murder trial, Nicole Brown Simpson spoke from the grave:
[Brown kept in a safe deposit box a] journal in which she wrote of Mr. Simpson's stalking her; photographs of her bruised face; letters of apology that Mr. Simpson wrote to her, and news clippings reporting a well-publicized incident in which Mr. Simpson attacked her on New Year's Eve 1989. In that incident Mrs. Simpson was hospitalized; Mr. Simpson pleaded no contest..."(http://www.nytimes.com/1995/01/13/us/prosecutors-say-nicole-simpson-kept...
On a less rigorous legal standard, Simpson was found liable after a civil lawsuit for $33 million. He engaged in various strategies to avoid paying the debt and has not.
The minimum Simpson could have gotten after the robbery trial was 7 years (he TURNED DOWN A DEAL for 2.5 years), the judge gave him 9, not even close to 33 years, the max; judge upped the sentence 6%.
Predictions:
1) Bruce Fromong, who testified for Simpson today, will get a trove of memorabilia to sell (he is a dealer).
2) The lawyers & private investigators looking for the 33.5 million owed, will keep a keen record of Simpson's activities.
3) Observation in 2 will yield hidden income (back to court) and unpaid taxes (they will notify IRS; think Capone and Leona Helmsley).
4) Observations in 2, after enough incriminating evidence gathered, will lead to a parole violation tip-off.
5) OJ RE-appointed Lovelock Prison Softball Commissioner (for a de facto life appt.).
[Brown kept in a safe deposit box a] journal in which she wrote of Mr. Simpson's stalking her; photographs of her bruised face; letters of apology that Mr. Simpson wrote to her, and news clippings reporting a well-publicized incident in which Mr. Simpson attacked her on New Year's Eve 1989. In that incident Mrs. Simpson was hospitalized; Mr. Simpson pleaded no contest..."(http://www.nytimes.com/1995/01/13/us/prosecutors-say-nicole-simpson-kept...
On a less rigorous legal standard, Simpson was found liable after a civil lawsuit for $33 million. He engaged in various strategies to avoid paying the debt and has not.
The minimum Simpson could have gotten after the robbery trial was 7 years (he TURNED DOWN A DEAL for 2.5 years), the judge gave him 9, not even close to 33 years, the max; judge upped the sentence 6%.
Predictions:
1) Bruce Fromong, who testified for Simpson today, will get a trove of memorabilia to sell (he is a dealer).
2) The lawyers & private investigators looking for the 33.5 million owed, will keep a keen record of Simpson's activities.
3) Observation in 2 will yield hidden income (back to court) and unpaid taxes (they will notify IRS; think Capone and Leona Helmsley).
4) Observations in 2, after enough incriminating evidence gathered, will lead to a parole violation tip-off.
5) OJ RE-appointed Lovelock Prison Softball Commissioner (for a de facto life appt.).
9
His blatant murder of two innocents in a savage rage wasn't about race; his brilliant, cynical lawyers made it so and did a spectacular job of it. AS a lawyer I was quite impressed and repulsed. In doing so, they pushed race to the forefront of America.
Whites finally understood payback from an intolerant justice system used to disenfranchise an entire population.
And Blacks sold their very soul to make that point.
It was a Devil's Bargain and we all are the poorer for it today. Mr. Simpson is a user of the first order, suffered no racial discrimination as a rich man in Hollywood, and is a true abomination. As he destroyed those two people he also helped to destroy the country which gave him so much.
Whites finally understood payback from an intolerant justice system used to disenfranchise an entire population.
And Blacks sold their very soul to make that point.
It was a Devil's Bargain and we all are the poorer for it today. Mr. Simpson is a user of the first order, suffered no racial discrimination as a rich man in Hollywood, and is a true abomination. As he destroyed those two people he also helped to destroy the country which gave him so much.
36
When has race ever not been pushed to the forefront of America?
Harmful White supremacist ideology has a foothold in every aspect of our country, and it's why someone like you is ignorant enough to believe that O.J. Simpson never suffered racial discrimination as a rich man in Hollywood, it's why you feel compelled to make generalizations based on race, and it's why this specific case gets more media attention than all of the history of violence that many minorities have suffered at the hands (and weapons) of many White Americans.
Harmful White supremacist ideology has a foothold in every aspect of our country, and it's why someone like you is ignorant enough to believe that O.J. Simpson never suffered racial discrimination as a rich man in Hollywood, it's why you feel compelled to make generalizations based on race, and it's why this specific case gets more media attention than all of the history of violence that many minorities have suffered at the hands (and weapons) of many White Americans.
2
Good deflection (actually, just okay) but as a lawyer I was also admiring of the defense and repulsed by the willful vengeance of the jury. I don't care if a thug was discriminated against every day of his life; nothing justifies trying to decapitate a woman and slaughtering her defender.
1
Darcey, your points make it pretty clear that a "multicultural" society does not work.
He made some stupid mistakes. He did his time. I hope he finds peace.
21
Yes, he did his time FOR THE ROBBERY AND KIDNAPPING.
BUT . . .
BUT . . .
8
Double homicide is more than a stupid mistake.
3
Running a red light is a "stupid mistake". Butchering two innocent human beings is a bit more than that.
4
This is the parole case for the robbery charge.
"Based on his age and the fact that he has been a model prisoner", it is unlikely that he will be a threat to the society, so I agree with the state Parole Board to grant him the parole.
I just wish that started from October 1 when he walks free, OJ follows the parole restrictions so that I don't hear/see anything about him from the media, and that my tax money is not spent to lock him up.
"Based on his age and the fact that he has been a model prisoner", it is unlikely that he will be a threat to the society, so I agree with the state Parole Board to grant him the parole.
I just wish that started from October 1 when he walks free, OJ follows the parole restrictions so that I don't hear/see anything about him from the media, and that my tax money is not spent to lock him up.
11
And the bizarro world we live in continues to unleash more of itself.
The murderer walks from an unrelated crime -- this is the new world we live in!
What's even more stunning with everything going on is the lack of focus here at home. Not ignoring the fact everyone seem to revert back to old defenses as justification or excuses.Race/gender/partisanship etc...I mean are there any more of us out there,who see through these rose-coloured glasses, past all these blurred lines and THINK for ourselves?
I miss normalcy. I miss healthy debates and difference, but most of all I miss America.
The murderer walks from an unrelated crime -- this is the new world we live in!
What's even more stunning with everything going on is the lack of focus here at home. Not ignoring the fact everyone seem to revert back to old defenses as justification or excuses.Race/gender/partisanship etc...I mean are there any more of us out there,who see through these rose-coloured glasses, past all these blurred lines and THINK for ourselves?
I miss normalcy. I miss healthy debates and difference, but most of all I miss America.
10
O.J. Simpson, of course, murdered his wife and Ron Goldman in the most horrifying manner possible. However, he was acquitted. He can only be punished for the crime he was convicted of, not the one he should have been. It would be nice to think that people will continue to shun him as a murderer, but, times being what they are, I see a new clothing line or reality show in his future, if not a position in the Trump cabinet.
6
The classic view of justice is holding a balancing scale while wearing a blindfold. In this parole consideration one case does not equal and cannot be considered as part of a second case.
3
Of course. Our minds know and accept that he beat a murder rap.
But our hearts still rebel that someone so definitely linked by DNA evidence got away originally with murder.
His claim that he has lived a " conflict free" life bubbles back to the surface our memories about all the evidence of years of wife beating.
But our hearts still rebel that someone so definitely linked by DNA evidence got away originally with murder.
His claim that he has lived a " conflict free" life bubbles back to the surface our memories about all the evidence of years of wife beating.
10
I am disgusted and fed up by what we consider news.
I just returned from an extensive foreign trip. While there, I listened to English language international news stations. I learned about events happening all over the world, some amazing, some inspiring, some sad, and many tragic. Anytime I turned on an American cable news channel, I heard nothing about any of these important stories. Instead, the coverage was consistently focused on endless coverage of a very few matters ( guess which ) that are of apparently little concern to the rest of the world. I have concluded that we are are a self absorbed society with delusions that what we think is important actually matters world wide. People elsewhere suffer unimaginably and are ignored by us because we are titillated by coverage of rubbish and trivia. We are like children watching a spitting contest in a school playground. Our media happily obliges by providing news so narrow in scope that it makes Russia or China state news seem objective by comparison.
A terrorist attack occurred where I was traveling. I immediately went to the NY Times website. The lead story was "Trump says French first lady was in good shape.". Nearby me, people died. I then turned on CNN. The lead story was " Trump says French first lady was in good shape." Nearby me, people died.
Today I arrived home, and during a 2 hour drive heard nothing but coverage about the OJ Simpson parole. Meanwhile, people suffer, but they are of no concern to us, are they ?
I just returned from an extensive foreign trip. While there, I listened to English language international news stations. I learned about events happening all over the world, some amazing, some inspiring, some sad, and many tragic. Anytime I turned on an American cable news channel, I heard nothing about any of these important stories. Instead, the coverage was consistently focused on endless coverage of a very few matters ( guess which ) that are of apparently little concern to the rest of the world. I have concluded that we are are a self absorbed society with delusions that what we think is important actually matters world wide. People elsewhere suffer unimaginably and are ignored by us because we are titillated by coverage of rubbish and trivia. We are like children watching a spitting contest in a school playground. Our media happily obliges by providing news so narrow in scope that it makes Russia or China state news seem objective by comparison.
A terrorist attack occurred where I was traveling. I immediately went to the NY Times website. The lead story was "Trump says French first lady was in good shape.". Nearby me, people died. I then turned on CNN. The lead story was " Trump says French first lady was in good shape." Nearby me, people died.
Today I arrived home, and during a 2 hour drive heard nothing but coverage about the OJ Simpson parole. Meanwhile, people suffer, but they are of no concern to us, are they ?
47
Best comment yet, Gino. Thank you for the perspective. Where is your New York Times pick gold T?
1
If you go back and compare the headlines in the Times to those of any major foreign daily, you'll appreciate how dumbed down the news is e.g. the first reference in the Times to the ethnic cleansing which occurred in Bosnia was in the Op Ed section, not a feature article. The atrocity had been reported for months in the foreign press but not the Times. Let's not overlook the fact that the Times is written at a grammar school reading level. It's appalling what is being passed off as cutting journalism. It is beyond a point of contention that the Times has a running vendetta with Trump to the determent of reporting real news. The front page has turns into a school yard fight. What has been achieved by the current administration? If you're dependent upon the Times to keep you informed, good luck!
He served his time and should be released. It would not be fair to try to punish him further for another crime that he was acquitted of.
12
Dark days for me. I feel like I was robbed of the feeling that I belong to the fair and just society.
2
We are a Nation of Laws not of feelings.
8
Doubt very seriously that he will toe the line , he will revert to his old behavior unless he got deep therapy in prison. Hopefully , at this stage in his life , he's old and the glamour has worn off so no woman will even think of getting involved with him , lest they be murdered too. Maybe he has reformed but , his acquittal was the biggest miscarriage of justice.
14
I won't be at the gate with flowers. Money buys and fame buys lots of things the rest of us have to do without.
2
I have never believed he committed the murders. I watched the trial and although, now, I can't remember the specifics exactly, there is something about the glove and prints and the glove found in the "electrical box" at his home? (Can't remember if it was an electrical box, but I just remember thinking something didn't make sense and it had to do with the finding of prints or gloves in one place and the finding of prints and gloves in another.
They didn't match up. I was fit to be tied. Of course we didn't have social media back then or I would lit it up. I kind of remembering trying to reach out to someone and tell them of the discrepancy, but to no affect. I came to the conclusion then, he did not do it.
They didn't match up. I was fit to be tied. Of course we didn't have social media back then or I would lit it up. I kind of remembering trying to reach out to someone and tell them of the discrepancy, but to no affect. I came to the conclusion then, he did not do it.
3
The gloves? You must have missed the part about the killer's hands being swollen because he didn't take his medication for a couple days.
1
I am neither white nor black. I thought it was a travesty of justice that, after he was acquitted by a jury in a murder trial, the justice system saw fit to try him in a civil court, just so that the accusing family could get their pound of flesh. Furthermore, the sentence given to him for this latest offense was way out of proportion.
This is justice?
This is justice?
5
Tho he is surely a murderer,his assault sentence was very harsh.
2
Deigning to comment amidst all this uninformed prattle-like ranting should do whomever reads this a favor. Not only did the judge, the prosecution and the defense at his murder trial know in advance of it that Mr. Simpson was not their man, but also they carried on the legal charade for the sole purpose of making money off of the publicity. They knew who the murderers were, if not the exact source of this murder for hire in an attempt to frame Mr. Simpson. I think that even the aftermath had an aura of extreme depravity about it in the sense that whomever it was who wanted Mr. Simpson out of the way was very cold and calculating about how exactly to effect a secondary plan in light of the failure to frame him for murder. I don't think he's prone to anything in particular, and I don't think that his professional football career necessarily indicates that he is a violent risk. He has been a victim of circumstance and a rather monstrous conspiracy against him.
3
Juice, is that you? They let you use your cell phone in the slammer?
7
To whom it may concern: If you recall, M. Shapiro requested a voir dire, or something like it, referring to all similar circumstances involving murders committed with a knife. About a month or so after the murders in LA a headline in a newspaper near Susanville, California read: "Pair Held in Grisly Murder". If you research this further, you find that one of the now convicted perpetrators happened to be blonde. Now, some evidence which was not introduced at the trial was that Nicole Brown was seen earlier in the evening at an ice cream parlor in the company of two white males, one of whom was blonde. The manager would have so testified, had it been necessary. You might also want to familiarize yourself with the United Bank of Denver robbery and murders, perhaps a couple of years prior to the murders in LA. It may be that the $200,000 which was stolen was used to lure these two above mentioned white males into framing Simpson in just that way. Something, however, appears to have gone wrong for them. All this was at least conjecturally known by the people referred to in my initial, reluctant post.
Prisoners, adjudicated complex real people, with diverse available and accessible internal and external resources, which can effect pro-social daily coping, adapting and functioning, especially when stereotyped, stigmatized, dehumanized and so easily not included, are paroled every day.And they become numbers for a range of individual and systemic pro and con stakeholders.All too often the focus is on the person, their compliance to a range of rules, often associated with principles of faith, and not the realities of the demands of daily living.Its range of known, unknown and unknowable"actors, " and their actions, in a range of safe to dangerous environments. Relatively little is considered regarding the parole officers. As diverse people. About the levels and qualities of the parole system. About members of the parole board and how their nuanced-unnuanced complex systems of awareness, perceptions, expectations, thinking, feelings, judgements, decision-making, learning or not learning from outcomes operate. OJ Simpson? A very small piece of a complex maze!
1
I listened to the entire hearing and heard NOT a single shred of genuine empathy, conscience, insight or real remorse.Just superficial pretense of being such a good regular felller we should forgive and forget. The officials seemed, as Jeffrey Toobin says, "catatonic". No in depth questioning his fake self-serving statements. One almost dug into empathy questions but Simpson just blathered on about how he really didn't hurt anyone, but if he did, well they forgave him.
A farce.
Oh, and the "risk" assessment is not about the probability of his committing more violent crimes, but rather it's about the "risk" of his going back to prison. Check it out.
He also had no insight into his narcissism and sociopathy or history ofpathological alcohol intoxications. Sadly, he seemed to have duped all that were there.
A farce.
Oh, and the "risk" assessment is not about the probability of his committing more violent crimes, but rather it's about the "risk" of his going back to prison. Check it out.
He also had no insight into his narcissism and sociopathy or history ofpathological alcohol intoxications. Sadly, he seemed to have duped all that were there.
12
First of all I need to say that I consider the whole matter of O.J. Simpson nothing more than a celebrity story. In Marxist terminology, at least as interpreted by Guy Debord in "The Society of the Spectacle," celebrity culture is false consciousness.
That said, I am glad that Mr. Simpson is being released on parole primarily because I detest Mark Fuhrman -- the cop who pled no contest to perjury in connection with his apparently habitual use of racial epithets, and who took the Fifth Amendment when asked if he had planted evidence in the murder trial at which Simpson was acquitted.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Fuhrman
As for the more recent armed robbery conviction for which Simpson is now being paroled, he served nine years in prison and that is enough.
That said, I am glad that Mr. Simpson is being released on parole primarily because I detest Mark Fuhrman -- the cop who pled no contest to perjury in connection with his apparently habitual use of racial epithets, and who took the Fifth Amendment when asked if he had planted evidence in the murder trial at which Simpson was acquitted.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Fuhrman
As for the more recent armed robbery conviction for which Simpson is now being paroled, he served nine years in prison and that is enough.
3
Yes, it is a " celebrity story" as you say. But it is another celebrity who denied spousal abuse and murder.
The last equally famous celebrity to try to get away with murder of woman he loved was the Olympic and Paraolympic sprinter. Oscar Pistorius of South Africa ( the " Bladerunner" who was eventually convicted for premeditated murder of Reeva Steenkamp.
In October 2015, Pistorius was released after just a year in jail. He was ordered to serve the rest of his manslaughter sentence under house arrest at his uncle Arnold’s home in Pretoria.
Two months later the Supreme Court overturned Pistorius’ manslaughter conviction, declaring him guilty of murder
He was given sentence of six years in prison in the hospital wing of the Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Pretoria for Reeva’s murder.
The last equally famous celebrity to try to get away with murder of woman he loved was the Olympic and Paraolympic sprinter. Oscar Pistorius of South Africa ( the " Bladerunner" who was eventually convicted for premeditated murder of Reeva Steenkamp.
In October 2015, Pistorius was released after just a year in jail. He was ordered to serve the rest of his manslaughter sentence under house arrest at his uncle Arnold’s home in Pretoria.
Two months later the Supreme Court overturned Pistorius’ manslaughter conviction, declaring him guilty of murder
He was given sentence of six years in prison in the hospital wing of the Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Pretoria for Reeva’s murder.
2
I have no sympathy for him. I do not like him, nor do I respect him. But his track record with the justice system is undeniable proof that two wrongs don't make a right. Personally, I think he should not have been acquitted for the murder charges. But I am absolutely positive that his sentencing for armed robbery was completely unethical. For this reason alone, I'm glad he'll be out soon.
35
I strongly disagree that the sentence, even if it was "payback" for the murders, was "unethical." If it's okay to set clearly guilty people free on a technicality, why isn't it okay to use a technicality (in this case, the discretion of the judge regarding sentencing) to punish clearly guilty people?
Yes, he was acquitted of the murders by a jury. But from what we know now, the jury was wrong, period. Under these circumstances, I don't see anything morally wrong with a judge and/or parole board using their discretion to punish someone who deserves it. The parole board was not seeking to retry OJ for the murders--but that doesn't mean that it was or would have been unethical to consider the fact that he committed them in making their decision. Justice comes in many forms.
If I were on that parole board, I would have voted against granting O.J. parole yesterday. He should have stayed where he belonged.
Yes, he was acquitted of the murders by a jury. But from what we know now, the jury was wrong, period. Under these circumstances, I don't see anything morally wrong with a judge and/or parole board using their discretion to punish someone who deserves it. The parole board was not seeking to retry OJ for the murders--but that doesn't mean that it was or would have been unethical to consider the fact that he committed them in making their decision. Justice comes in many forms.
If I were on that parole board, I would have voted against granting O.J. parole yesterday. He should have stayed where he belonged.
The comments here exemplify the reason racism will never end in America. And these are NYT readers - the most liberal, intellectual, tolerant, and informed of the population.
Most people here cannot separate the armed robbery case from the murder trial. If OJ was not a black celebrity, was unknown, and was never tried for murdering two white people, does any of you "intellectuals" honestly believe he deserved 33 years given the facts in this robbery case? I do not excuse his stupidity in the robbery case, but this clearly was travesty of justice.
Most black people, like others, thought OJ was guilty of murder or at least knew something about it. However, when the case was turned into a racial issue, blacks became appalled at the hypocrisy of it all, and celebrated his acquittal as a spite against a legal system that for generations persecuted them. For many blacks, OJ's murder acquittal had nothing to do with evidence but everything to do with symbolism and emancipation, no matter how little.
Therefore our collective inability to stand in another man's shoes will continue to haunt peace and justice in this country, like a timeless, malevolent ghost, and all talk of a perfect union will remain exactly what it is - empty platitudes.
Most people here cannot separate the armed robbery case from the murder trial. If OJ was not a black celebrity, was unknown, and was never tried for murdering two white people, does any of you "intellectuals" honestly believe he deserved 33 years given the facts in this robbery case? I do not excuse his stupidity in the robbery case, but this clearly was travesty of justice.
Most black people, like others, thought OJ was guilty of murder or at least knew something about it. However, when the case was turned into a racial issue, blacks became appalled at the hypocrisy of it all, and celebrated his acquittal as a spite against a legal system that for generations persecuted them. For many blacks, OJ's murder acquittal had nothing to do with evidence but everything to do with symbolism and emancipation, no matter how little.
Therefore our collective inability to stand in another man's shoes will continue to haunt peace and justice in this country, like a timeless, malevolent ghost, and all talk of a perfect union will remain exactly what it is - empty platitudes.
158
The shoes we're unable to stand in are Bruno Maglis. We can't afford them. OJ could, though he lied about owning them until video evidence proved otherwise.
And he could afford the best defense money could buy. That's why he's a free man today.
And he could afford the best defense money could buy. That's why he's a free man today.
26
Nice try, but it was never about race. Never. If anything, it was about the cult of celebrity that pervades American "culture." OJ was a former football and then minor movie star. White American's saw him as that, not as "the other," as you suggest. I understand the horrible cards that Blacks have been dealt, and maybe his acquittal felt good for a time, but he was not the guy to hand your hat on....
9
Oh please. I watched the series where several jurors admitted they considered "not guilty " as payback for racial injustice.
Sorry, but I believe in let the evidence lead the way.
His involvement in Vegas with his buddies (while there for a wedding, no less) turned violent. OJ was responsible for that.
Does he deserve parole? Sounds like he does.
But don't use this guy as a poster child for racial injustice. It cheapens the argument.
Sorry, but I believe in let the evidence lead the way.
His involvement in Vegas with his buddies (while there for a wedding, no less) turned violent. OJ was responsible for that.
Does he deserve parole? Sounds like he does.
But don't use this guy as a poster child for racial injustice. It cheapens the argument.
4
Never thought Simpson would walk free. Travesty of justice. This hearing never should have been televised. Obviously influenced the parole board's decision.
17
And you, of course, are in the know. As for myself, I sincerely hope that when Donald Trump is sent to prison he will never go free.
3
The Parole Board has spoken.
THIS time, he should become the invisible man, so low-key as to not even have a shadow. Exit stage left, never to been seen again and count his lucky stars.
THIS time, he should become the invisible man, so low-key as to not even have a shadow. Exit stage left, never to been seen again and count his lucky stars.
79
Bet he won't though. He's deluded himself that he's lived a pretty "conflict-free" life in spite of multiple domestic abuse incidents that are on record! His ego is too big to allow him to live quietly. Within a year he'll likely be back with the shady characters that were involved in the crime that got him the prison sentence. OJ sees himself as belonging in the limelight.
10
Amen, to that!
2
I agree he should lead a quiet life but if I had to bet as to what he will do I wouldn't take that bet. I think he likes the limelight even when it is negative.
But his last nine years of reported behavior clearly made him eligible for parole and the review board followed the proces and the law in their decision, for which all citizens should be thankful.
But his last nine years of reported behavior clearly made him eligible for parole and the review board followed the proces and the law in their decision, for which all citizens should be thankful.
2
Wait, Whoa!
Are we forgetting the obscure but useful rule created by the Gods of Sanity which explicitly forbids OJ and Trump from both being free at the same time?
If OJ gets out then Trump has to be incarcerated.
Sorry, that's the rule.
Are we forgetting the obscure but useful rule created by the Gods of Sanity which explicitly forbids OJ and Trump from both being free at the same time?
If OJ gets out then Trump has to be incarcerated.
Sorry, that's the rule.
74
I hope you're right, but I fear the more likely is that you're about to become an atheist.
2
I half expect him to show up at the White House for lunch one day soon.
3
@Paul King: no, wait: rather than forcing one of these two miscreants to be locked away as a matter of balance, there's perhaps a better way: impeach Trump (If there's a God this will come to pass), then emphatically and enthusiastically urge OJ to team up with Trump, forming a new Dynamic Duo who, with Trumps vast financial resources, can spend the rest of their lives doggedly search out the Real Killers, starting with each of Trump's golf courses and then, if need be, expand the search throughout the world, leaving no green forsaken . . .
Imagine the Tweets all along the way!!! The possibilities are breathtaking!
What could possibly go wrong? imagine the riches-to-riches sorry of redemption to be told when they succeed . . .
(Hey: this fantasy is no more surreal and sadly comical than than the Reality Train Wreck that is engulfing the White House. . .)
Imagine the Tweets all along the way!!! The possibilities are breathtaking!
What could possibly go wrong? imagine the riches-to-riches sorry of redemption to be told when they succeed . . .
(Hey: this fantasy is no more surreal and sadly comical than than the Reality Train Wreck that is engulfing the White House. . .)
2
This isn't surprising. Does anyone think OJ would have been granted parole if he was poor and not a celebrity? Not a chance. Once again, the Juice got it over on the criminal justice system.
24
Yes. Nevada has 11 measures scored for parole and many are objective, like age of first conviction (helped him) and gender (hurt him). Because of the formula this hearing was a formality and would have been exactly the same for any other prisoner.
And yes, Nevada considers being male a strike against parole. I doubt we'll hear much about that social justice issue though.
And yes, Nevada considers being male a strike against parole. I doubt we'll hear much about that social justice issue though.
1
If he was ANYTHING but a sports figure in a land of people obsessed with sports, on one would ever have heard about this, the murder, Ron Goldman, or anyone else associated with this story.
I'm no fan of O.J. and certainly believe he committed the murders, but if O.J. wasn't a celeb, he wouldn't have gotten nine years for the robbery. He would have gotten a year.
3
Isn't it time to put the blame where it belongs as the real reason O J Simpson was not convicted for the murders of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman such as the horrific way Marcia Clark prosecuted the case? Back in 1994 Marcia Clark actually eclipsed Hillary Clinton as the most hated woman in America. Americans were turned off by Clark and were indignant that this awful woman was harassing a beloved football icon. Marcia Clark would never again prosecute another case after Simpson was found Not Guilty. Simpson was also defended by his legal "dream team" who outmaneuvered the prosecution every step of the way. Rehashing OJ's first highly publicized trail isn't going to bring Nichole and Ron back.
Besides getting paroled is not exactly the same as getting a Monopoly "Get Out Of Jail" card. When Simpson leaves prison in October he will be watched like a hawk. Simpson has to toe the line carefully or else he could be sent back to prison for the slightest infraction of his parole. Therefore Simpson isn't getting away with anything this time around.
Besides getting paroled is not exactly the same as getting a Monopoly "Get Out Of Jail" card. When Simpson leaves prison in October he will be watched like a hawk. Simpson has to toe the line carefully or else he could be sent back to prison for the slightest infraction of his parole. Therefore Simpson isn't getting away with anything this time around.
10
Our judicial system is imperfect to make an obvious point.
6
Mr. Simpson's parole rightfully takes no account of the murder charges against him, The jury found him not guilty and they had the final word. The system does not allow for punishment to those acquitted, however questionable the verdict may be. Still, this was no ordinary case and, at this point, Simpson can enter into agreements with the Goldmans and his wife's family so that he has nothing to lose. If he then were to tell the truth about what happened, I think most of us would feel better about the guy.
6
Oh he will never tell the truth about it. Just like Claus Von Bulow in the rich Newport, RI murder of spouse, it is another rich man who got away with murder.
Yes, his robbery case is separate, and the rules for that conviction and parole should follow our legal codes.
But it revolts me that he is claiming he has never been a violent man...People who are physical abusers of spouse or children always claim to be innocent of such activities.
Yes, his robbery case is separate, and the rules for that conviction and parole should follow our legal codes.
But it revolts me that he is claiming he has never been a violent man...People who are physical abusers of spouse or children always claim to be innocent of such activities.
8
You really think we would "feel better about the guy" is he confessed to his murders?
1
I would hope most Americans would take this moment to remember Nicole Brown, Ron Goldman, and their families. Maybe O.J. should too.
100
The jury didn't convict him.
9
Oh but the civil trial jury found him guilty and he owes Ron Goldman's father a fortune because OJ lost in civil court.
1
The Civil one did.
3
The primary cultural significance of OJ Simpson is that his murder case highlighted the vastly different way many blacks and whites relate to the criminal justice system. Many whites saw a terrible injustice in his acquittal. Many blacks saw someone they could relate to, someone who looked like them, beating a system they find consistently lacking in justice. I was in a room of blacks and whites when the verdict was announced and remember the conflicting responses of the 2 groups. This disparity of course continues to be played out today.
To be clear- this is not a statement about everyone in either group. I know opinions vary between individuals. But I do believe there is considerable validity in this generalization.
To be clear- this is not a statement about everyone in either group. I know opinions vary between individuals. But I do believe there is considerable validity in this generalization.
23
Robert, thanks for that comment...I agree with you. As a black person, I was pleased to hear that Simpson was granted parole (by no means do I mean that my reaction is synonymous with being black). But I think, sadly, this divide in how blacks and whites relate to the criminal justice system shows that America is a long way from positive reform.
13
33 years was a very long sentence for robbery. I'm glad OJ is out of prison on parole. He worked hard while in prison to keep clean and become as close to a model prisoner as possible. I'm glad it paid off.
2
As Byron Stevenson has maintained, those without the capital get the punishment. The murder trial of Orenthal James Simpson is but one example.
1
He is likely to be hired by Trump, maybe as head of the Department of Corrections?
27
Actually, if Trump is doing the hiring then it would be the Bureau of Prisons...minor detail. If you listened to what OJ said and the actions he took on behalf of those incarcerated then he would make for a great BOP official. He understands first hand how the system benefits nobody; incarcerated or free. Those convicted will one day be free...plan for it.
1
As long as George Zimmerman is allowed to walk free after murdering a child, NOBODY should have a problem with OJ Simpson getting parole, after serving his time. The reason why White people refuse to let go of OJ is because he's one of the tiny number of Black men who have gotten away with killing White people (and I think he did it). George Zimmerman is a member of a much bigger club.
52
Dang, that's some extremely clarifying very heavy shade. Thank you, OJ has always left me so ambivalent. You helped clarify, some people get away with murder, almost always white people. Now we'll see what happens to the Somali cop...
1
@laura174: your painting all white people with the same brush regarding their presumed attitudes towards O.J. is every bit as racist as that which you imply.
I was appalled NOT becausev I'm white -- OJ was one of my all-time favorite sports heroes -- how do you reconcile that? -- but rather because the evidence was overwhelming and for whatever reason --inept prosecution, a "even the score" prejudice by the jury, a man who visciously murdered the mother of his own children and another human for the sake of infidelity was stunningly acquitted.
White, black, brown, red or green with polka dots, the verdict was unforgivable.
I was appalled NOT becausev I'm white -- OJ was one of my all-time favorite sports heroes -- how do you reconcile that? -- but rather because the evidence was overwhelming and for whatever reason --inept prosecution, a "even the score" prejudice by the jury, a man who visciously murdered the mother of his own children and another human for the sake of infidelity was stunningly acquitted.
White, black, brown, red or green with polka dots, the verdict was unforgivable.
1
Blacks had no problem with Lemrick Nelson getting found not guilty so they have no grounds to be appauled at the Zimmerman verdict. See? It goes both ways.
It is a shame OJ was acquitted for the two brutal murders he 100% committed back in 1994. That is on Marcia Clarke and her idiotic decision to move the case from where OJ lived to the inner city of LA. The savagery of those crimes was truly unconscionable, with OJ nearly decapitating his wife's head and leaving his two children without a mother. Throw in the murder of Ron Goldman who was at the wrong place at the wrong time and you have an unforgivable injustice that heretofore has yet to be punished. Then to hear Mr. Simpson proclaim today that he had "never brandished a weapon" was truly galling. The pusillanimous Nevada parole board could have easily denied him release if they had an ounce of courage, but alas they did not. If he kills again in the next three years that will be on them. We all know OJ has a short fuse and can easily transform into a psychopathic murderer with a hit of methamphetamine coupled with a gripe. But perhaps Mr. Simpson will meet final justice on the outside, somewhere in Florida, where he will live out his years on a fat NFL pension that is un-attachable by the Goldman family. We can only hope.
29
It wasn't her decision to move the trial downtown. It was Gil Garcetti's brilliant move.
7
People are upset because in 1995 O.J. Simpson was treated with the same injustice as countless whites before him who got off scot free due to jury bias.
19
Bravo, Chris for telling it like it is.
how long before O.J. Is dating kris Jenner, and is playing the part of the de facto dad on Keeping Up With the Kardashians?---
23
This was the correct decision. The parole board was making its decision based on the facts of the Las Vegas robbery, and Mr. Simpson's threat to society should he be paroled. This is appropriate. They were not looking to make amends for the (ridiculous) acquittal in his murder trial in 1995.
He should have been given a life sentence, if not the death penalty, for the two murders he obviously committed in 1994. But he was acquitted.
We must respect the law, and not let outside emotions cloud our judgment. Based only on the robbery conviction, Mr. Simpson deserved to be paroled.
He should have been given a life sentence, if not the death penalty, for the two murders he obviously committed in 1994. But he was acquitted.
We must respect the law, and not let outside emotions cloud our judgment. Based only on the robbery conviction, Mr. Simpson deserved to be paroled.
73
Maybe he can run for president.
33
He'll be back in 6 months......he's predisposed to criminality.
17
Unless there is a clear threat, no one should be imprisoned past age 60 after serving 10 years or more, or more than 10 years, if convicted after age 60. It's a ridiculously extravagant waste of taxpayer money.
4
Can we make an exception for Trump? He's 71.
25
Simpson is clearly a violent person and is a threat.
10
AT 70? Really? As long as he has no access to guns, he's harmless. If he's still able, let Avis and the NFL give him a screen test.
We waste absurd amounts of money on a prison system that houses people who are elderly.
We waste absurd amounts of money on a prison system that houses people who are elderly.
Probably someone you'd want to avoid on your dating website.
19
OJ is being paroled, not pardoned. Parole has many restriction and if he breaks one he could be right back where he is today. I would not be surprised to see him back in prison before long. If he commits a crime on parole he will be treated even more severely than he was this time and second offenders don’t get much slack. This is not over and I seriously doubt it will end well for OJ. Glad to hear he is moving back to Florida – another law and order state where the citizens would be happy to give him a nice long sentence.
28
Glad to know OJ can now resume his searh for his wife's murderer. After his acquital for murder he had told us he would devote his life to that.
71
Maybe he can team up with Trump's investigation into Obama's citizenship.
18
He got a tip it was done by a caddie in Florida. He's resolve to play a lot of golf there in his efforts to locate the "real killer".
1
or the democratic party's witch hunt Russian investigation would be more like it .
The Juice holds the best rushing from the law record in the NFL.
16
I can think of a couple linebackers who should be in the conversation.
1
Like virtually evetyone else, I think O J Simpson's acquittal in his double murder case was a travesty of justice, but like it or not the jury heard the evidence and reached their verdict. That's how the system works. There is every indication that Simpson was an excellent candidate for parole on the later, unrealted charge he was convicted of. Much as it may turn your stomach you can't punish someone for a crime they were acquitted of by a properly instructed jury.
17
I heartily agree but would add that OJ is inclined to amazingly stupid actions (Nicole and Ron's murders as well as the absurd robbery) and therefore, likely to commit a future act that will result in his re-incarceration.
2
He may be a murderer. I don't like him. But he was unfairly punished for the robbery.
17
True. But people didn't want to believe DNA results. Everyone now understands that was a perversion of justice.
2
OJ Simpson stated he has had a conflict free life...where is he getting his lying talking points from- Donald Trump?
Sorry, OJ- even if anyone were to believe you were innocent of the crime of murdering 2 people ( no one believes that you were innocent)- but putting that aside, your late wife Nicole called 911 on several occasions due to wife beating.
I suggest you apply for a job in the Trump administration, OJ. You would fit right in with their amorality, narcissism, and pathological lying.
Sorry, OJ- even if anyone were to believe you were innocent of the crime of murdering 2 people ( no one believes that you were innocent)- but putting that aside, your late wife Nicole called 911 on several occasions due to wife beating.
I suggest you apply for a job in the Trump administration, OJ. You would fit right in with their amorality, narcissism, and pathological lying.
27
Enough already with the bogus comparisons to trump. One or possibly two character flaws -- that is it.
Please stop this, people. Take out your (justified) hatred of mr trump elsewhere.
The racism and judgmental ism in these comments is profoundly disturbing.
Please stop this, people. Take out your (justified) hatred of mr trump elsewhere.
The racism and judgmental ism in these comments is profoundly disturbing.
As they say in Zen: after the ecstasy, the laundry.
He can smile now. But once he remembers that every $ he earns until the end of his stay on this earth goes directly to The Goldmans.
He can smile now. But once he remembers that every $ he earns until the end of his stay on this earth goes directly to The Goldmans.
9
He does not need to earn a penny and he does not because he gets 25K per month from the NFL which the Goldman's cannot touch.
8
An article on his pension(s): http://money.cnn.com/2017/07/20/news/o-j-simpson-retirement-income/index...
1
Does the Brown family not get 1/2 of the monies if any is ever recovered?
You won’t find me arguing that he’s innocent, but he’s a broken shell, and I feel that people (white) take it upon themselves to rail about The Injustice. They are re-trying his previous crime, for which he was found not guilty by a court of law.
You may not agree with it, but it is the law. Just the same as when white people hung blacks from trees, were tried, and found not guilty—by a court of law. And for those verdicts, it was accepted just fine. And when a white police officer kills an unarmed person of color, and is tried in court and found not guilty, its accepted as just fine.
Justice was served in the cases involving OJ... its over. But not for SOME people (and obviously the families involved). I am hoping America can let it rest, but judging by the teeth-gnashing on this comments board, my hopes are pointless.
You may not agree with it, but it is the law. Just the same as when white people hung blacks from trees, were tried, and found not guilty—by a court of law. And for those verdicts, it was accepted just fine. And when a white police officer kills an unarmed person of color, and is tried in court and found not guilty, its accepted as just fine.
Justice was served in the cases involving OJ... its over. But not for SOME people (and obviously the families involved). I am hoping America can let it rest, but judging by the teeth-gnashing on this comments board, my hopes are pointless.
16
So you're really going to say that lynching was okay because the punchers were legally acquitted? Or if a cop shoots an innocent person and is acquitted, that's okay?
Injustice should never be accepted. A court may have the final word as to whether someone gets a legal punishment, but no one has to take that as the final word as to moral responsibility.
Injustice should never be accepted. A court may have the final word as to whether someone gets a legal punishment, but no one has to take that as the final word as to moral responsibility.
6
How to waste a life is his only contribution.
17
Watching this video, Simpson must be a sociopath; he is laughing and still talking sports as if he doesn't have a care in the world even though he is and has been in prison. When he is required to look solemn and serious he matches that look within a flash of a second. If this is what he is like after 9 years of prison what is he like out of prison?
14
So you're saying that because of the setting that OJ can't even laugh and be expressive? If he looked glum and despondent and maintained a "murderous" look and appeared threatening, that would have been more acceptable? I surmise that over the past nine years he might not have had much to smile about or laugh at. Let him have a moment. What's it to you?
7
What better time to laugh and smile than as you leave the big house?
2
Don't put words in my post. I never referred to a "murderous" look. You did however, which is revealing. I guess you like the guy. Invite him over then. Just don't irritate him.
O.J. should have been in prison for the murder of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, but he was acquitted, so the double murders should not have factored into the parole broad decision. However, one can’t help but wish that the parole panelist had made the parole conditional on his revealing what he did with the knife, bloody clothes and Bruno Magli shoes.
8
I have always been puzzled by the fact that many people believe OJ was guilty of murder although he was never convicted of murder. As the reasoning goes, the justice system failed to convict him as he was able to afford capable/good legal defense. Yet, there are many African Americans in jail, who are unable to afford capable/good legal defense, and it seems many people, perhaps some of the same people, do not believe the majority of them are innocent? If the legal system failed with OJ, it must have also failed with the many African American in jail. One cannot have it both ways! I believe we have a legal system that often favors the wealthy and the white, a system that reflects our biases and prejudices and falls short of achieving justice for all!
10
The jury believed, or at least pretended to believe, the defense claim that the Los Angles police who followed the blood trail leading from the murder scene to O.J.'s house conspired to plant the bloody gloves and DNA evidence. O.J> perjured himself by claiming he had never owned a pair of Bruno Magli shoes, the rare tyoe of shoe that left bloody footprints at eh murder scene. However, photos that showed him wearing Bruno Magli shoes surface soon after the trail. But it didn't really matter. The jury would have acquitted him even if videotapes showed him committing the murder.
10
In the years since the OJ murder trial, juries have come to understand and accept DNA evidence. He would,have been convicted if that jury had really believed DNA provides reputable proof.
Unfairly long imprisoned imprisoned people are now being exonerated by reexamination of evidence, looking at DNA.
They are being freed by what should have originally sentenced OJ.
Unfairly long imprisoned imprisoned people are now being exonerated by reexamination of evidence, looking at DNA.
They are being freed by what should have originally sentenced OJ.
Even though this hearing had nothing to do with what happened in 1994, I'm taking a moment to remember Nicole Brown, Ron Goldman, and their families.
As O.J. rejoins his family and rides off into the sunset, the Browns and Goldmans will never truly know peace. And if there is any kind of cosmic justice, neither will O.J.
As O.J. rejoins his family and rides off into the sunset, the Browns and Goldmans will never truly know peace. And if there is any kind of cosmic justice, neither will O.J.
28
He served his time, yes he should be paroled plain and simple.
5
Folks fixated on OJ - does not reflect positively on the compass of America.
The fact that his parole hearing was televised evidences that our society is losing its grip on what is important.
The dumbing of American continues.
The fact that his parole hearing was televised evidences that our society is losing its grip on what is important.
The dumbing of American continues.
23
The fact it was televised indicates there is too much bandwidth and not enough content.
2
I will always believe that O.J.Simpson was never guilty; then, and again now. I watched this wonderful Football player open up as any human being would, to help and consider others and maintain composure; in watching today l closely could see a man wronged, and totally innocent, and still be a kind human being. I wish him joy with his family and children. Justice was served.
1
Not guilty? And you also believe in the tooth fairy?
18
He served his time for what he was convicted in Nevada. He was never convicted of murder in California, although I firmly believe his conviction in Nevada was for the California murders. He followed the rules for parole so he was paroled. That's our justice system. There are murders committed on video and there is never a real public out cry when the murderer isn't convicted. The recent slew of police killings of citizens during traffic stops are examples. I wonder why there is a double standard. I personally am outrage by what he probably did and the police shootings as well. In the end, justice and vindication comes from God IMHO, although we may never see it.
3
OJ Simpson is the living embodiment of the futility of the American criminal justice system.
6
Right or wrong the sad fact is that he was acquitted of the double murders. Our legal systems prevents a double jeopardy conviction no matter how much the public wants it. He did his time for the robbery and if he was the model prisoner they say he was he had to be released.
4
He's had 9 years to anticipate the questions and formulate lies, and a self-effacing demeanor. He should have been given more time to perfect his role.
Let's set the record straight: he was found not guilty because his victims were white and he is black. The 12 jurors consisted of 9 black women. The modus vivendi of this trial was that it was pay-back time.
Let's set the record straight: he was found not guilty because his victims were white and he is black. The 12 jurors consisted of 9 black women. The modus vivendi of this trial was that it was pay-back time.
12
Would your outrage be so apparent if Simpson had been accused of killing a black woman and a black man?
Don't answer.
The question is rhetorical.
Don't answer.
The question is rhetorical.
5
Well, then, let me ask you the same question: how would you feel if he "had been accused of killing a black woman and a black man"?
You may answer.
The question is not rhetorical.
You may answer.
The question is not rhetorical.
1
Quite frankly, I wouldn't feel any differently.
Are you pleased with this response, or is it too obtuse?
Are you pleased with this response, or is it too obtuse?
2
I think tens of millions of Americans were stunned by someone they regarded as a hero and an American success story turning out to be a murderer. OJ hurt the country a lot. But that's not why he was in jail. Sounds like the parole is justified.
5
OJ Simpson to join Trump Administration as the new associate US Attorney General specializing on race based and athletic issues.
2
Possible events after he is released:
1. OJ searches for the killer of Nicole Simpson and Mark Goldman as he promised after his acquittal from their murder trial.
2. OJ plays golf with President Trump.
Guess which one will win?
1. OJ searches for the killer of Nicole Simpson and Mark Goldman as he promised after his acquittal from their murder trial.
2. OJ plays golf with President Trump.
Guess which one will win?
2
I will never respect that Alan Dershowitz defended OJ.
13
Nor I. It was a blemish that is unforgivable.
6
Okay, O.J., you won, despite saying in the hearing that you are basically a nonviolent person who avoids conflict.
Now go away.
Now go away.
8
OJ isn't responsible for the cameras in the hearing room or the media fixation. If you watched the hearing, perhaps you are guilty of obsession.
1
From the story:
He said he had never brandished a weapon at anyone, and never would, adding, “I basically have spent a conflict-free life.”
Feel free to keep coming to his defense. I'm done with him.
He said he had never brandished a weapon at anyone, and never would, adding, “I basically have spent a conflict-free life.”
Feel free to keep coming to his defense. I'm done with him.
1
It confounds me that people are still outraged that OJ was not convicted of Nicole Brown and Ron Kidman's death but they keep forgetting and show no outrage for acquittal of hundreds of police officers who killed innocent men and women since then.
Would we have the same outrage if races were reversed?
Would we have the same outrage if races were reversed?
17
Some of us are outraged about both, no reversal required.
2
This is where you are wrong. I grieve for the innocent black people killed by police officers because on their race, and black people killed in the past by racists. And I grieve for Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman. When race is truly not the defining factor, one can do both.
1
After all the years that the police responded to domestic violence phone calls before the murder, Simpson even now has the audacity to say to the world: "I basically have spent a conflict-free life.”
He avoids conflict as well as Trump avoids lying.
He avoids conflict as well as Trump avoids lying.
14
For all of the commenters disappointed by this: as much as I agree that O.J. has not been, at least in this mortal life, brought to justice, it isn't the parole board's fault that he was acquitted in his murder trial.
The memorabilia charges, for which he was convicted, were based on flimsy evidence. The parole board did their jobs; don't blame them they couldn't time-travel and get a different outcome in the murder trial.
The memorabilia charges, for which he was convicted, were based on flimsy evidence. The parole board did their jobs; don't blame them they couldn't time-travel and get a different outcome in the murder trial.
3
As a Black man in America, these are my observations:
One, when a Black person is on trial and the jury rules the way most White people believe what the verdict should be, the system worked the way it was supposed to work. However, if a jury rules differently, there's an issue with the system. The defendant really was guilty but because of jury nullification, he got off for a crime that he really committed.
This same hypocrisy is seen in the current opioid epidemic. When mostly Black and other minorities were dying from heroin overdoses, it was a law enforcement issue. But when hundreds of white person started dying from opioids addiction, it became a public health crisis
In addition, this mindset is also seen with these allegations of voter fraud. I've been registered voter for over 30 years. Voter fraud was not a problem and no previous president appointed a commission to look into this matter.
But it's iron that the integrity of the voting booth became an issue only when a Black (or biracial) man was elected president.
Does anyone notice a pattern here? It as if some White people feel that Blacks are clueless regarding what really is happening in America. But no worry. Just like opioid addiction addiction moved from the inner city to the suburb, it's only a matter of time when more White people will be killed by the cops for no reason like the lady in Minnesota. Then, maybe when enough Whites are affected by a societal issues, some will get done.
One, when a Black person is on trial and the jury rules the way most White people believe what the verdict should be, the system worked the way it was supposed to work. However, if a jury rules differently, there's an issue with the system. The defendant really was guilty but because of jury nullification, he got off for a crime that he really committed.
This same hypocrisy is seen in the current opioid epidemic. When mostly Black and other minorities were dying from heroin overdoses, it was a law enforcement issue. But when hundreds of white person started dying from opioids addiction, it became a public health crisis
In addition, this mindset is also seen with these allegations of voter fraud. I've been registered voter for over 30 years. Voter fraud was not a problem and no previous president appointed a commission to look into this matter.
But it's iron that the integrity of the voting booth became an issue only when a Black (or biracial) man was elected president.
Does anyone notice a pattern here? It as if some White people feel that Blacks are clueless regarding what really is happening in America. But no worry. Just like opioid addiction addiction moved from the inner city to the suburb, it's only a matter of time when more White people will be killed by the cops for no reason like the lady in Minnesota. Then, maybe when enough Whites are affected by a societal issues, some will get done.
13
I don't think that will happen there are deeper social issues at play
You are 100% correct in your analysis. (I'm white, for the record).
1
It's worth noting that paroled isn't "free". He will have a number of restrictions and rules to follow in order to remain in good stranding. Two-to-one his slips up and faces a return to incarceration. Those are the national probabilities, not an assessment of his individual chances.
And that's just the justice system. His freedom will be more significantly curtailed by public curiosity, celebrity-press scrutiny, and the mental pressure of knowing that millions believe he has not suffered enough and hope he fails again and again.
I suspect that he will never be able feel free in any meaningful sense.
And that's just the justice system. His freedom will be more significantly curtailed by public curiosity, celebrity-press scrutiny, and the mental pressure of knowing that millions believe he has not suffered enough and hope he fails again and again.
I suspect that he will never be able feel free in any meaningful sense.
4
Now then: Can he stay out of trouble? He still has that pension. I say, learn how to garden, plant a vegetable patch, and study the prophets. Think on things, search your soul, and try to come to terms with who you are and what your life has been so far.
5
When will Trump be inviting OJ to the White House? He might be one of the few people in the world who'd actually welcome Trump's friendship.
1
The parole board's decision will be controversial either way. However, OJ was not imprisoned for murder, although many feel that the charge was a roundabout way of doing so.
OJ should be in prison for murder of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman, but he wasn't and will never be. If OJ continues to face retaliatory parole ruling because of these murders - of which he wasn't convicted -- our justice system will slide into a kangaroo court.
OJ is odious, a supposed model-prisoner, and has means to support himself. Prisons are crowded. If he should be paroled, parole him.
OJ should be in prison for murder of Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman, but he wasn't and will never be. If OJ continues to face retaliatory parole ruling because of these murders - of which he wasn't convicted -- our justice system will slide into a kangaroo court.
OJ is odious, a supposed model-prisoner, and has means to support himself. Prisons are crowded. If he should be paroled, parole him.
31
OJ brought the railroading on himself. After his murders acquittal - a victory for Rodney King - he chose to mock the Goldmans and Browns and rub in their face that fact he had escaped to his Wealthy Good Life. Fortunately, the civil court crimped that and his now middle-class lifestyle lead him to commit felonious larceny and kidnapping. Sociopaths cannot contain their true natures. He is the Martin Skreli of the 80's.
1
Not bad, 9 years for armed robbery and for murdering 2 people. Only in America.
59
As expected the psychological sewers are open. Do you William and the many others like you who call O.J. Simpson a "murder" did you rush to make that same commentary when George Zimmerman, Jeromino Yanez, Michael Slager got either acquitted or their trials were declared mistrials despite video and/or tape evidence of what happened at the crime scene? Are you quick to call the police officers who choked Eric Garner to death murders? Umm, umh I do not think so. There was a lot "stuff" in that the O.J. trial to cause reasonable doubt - a botched autopsy so there was no real time of death, the prosecution's star witness who perjured himself on the stand, undetermined whether there was 1 or more murderers, a "gotcha" glove that did not fit, etc.
If O.J. got off scot free, America's history is rife with Caucasians who summarily murdered Black people and who did not serve a day in jail. Read the book "Without Sanctuary" the pictorial history of lynching in America and look at all the smiling faces standing around the lynching tree.
In fact, when Dylan Roof was arrested, the police took him to Burger King to get something to eat before taking him to the police station. You think the L.A. police three years after the Rodney King beatings did that for O.J. when they arrested him? Not in a crack induced nightmare. So please you all, spare me with the injustice garbage. And why of all people who are in America today, is O.J.'s hearing important. Can someone say "fake news"?
If O.J. got off scot free, America's history is rife with Caucasians who summarily murdered Black people and who did not serve a day in jail. Read the book "Without Sanctuary" the pictorial history of lynching in America and look at all the smiling faces standing around the lynching tree.
In fact, when Dylan Roof was arrested, the police took him to Burger King to get something to eat before taking him to the police station. You think the L.A. police three years after the Rodney King beatings did that for O.J. when they arrested him? Not in a crack induced nightmare. So please you all, spare me with the injustice garbage. And why of all people who are in America today, is O.J.'s hearing important. Can someone say "fake news"?
5
Last time I checked he was acquitted of murder. Just like all most of those cops who were filmed shooting unarmed black men.
6
Our laws and justice system apply to EVERYONE. No matter how sure you are that he killed Nichole and Ron (and I'm quite sure of it myself) - the courts should only deal with this case.
He did what he was charged with, but parole, in a case where there was no physical harm done, is reasonable. 9 years for theft by gun with some kidnapping (yes, it was) is reasonable. And it is theft - just because you gave something away to someone doesn't mean you can take it back.
He did what he was charged with, but parole, in a case where there was no physical harm done, is reasonable. 9 years for theft by gun with some kidnapping (yes, it was) is reasonable. And it is theft - just because you gave something away to someone doesn't mean you can take it back.
4
Outside of the political arena, one of the most despicable Americans alive today.
79
He is part of why some people like Trump think that if you are " a celebrity", you can " get away with anything".
As a resident of Nevada, I would have made a condition of his parole that he never set foot in Nevada again.
12
just disgusting. a confessed and convicted wife-beater, not to mention a double murder cheater, has "led a conflict free life"
33
The conscience should take over eventually... unless he's a psychopath and finally turns to dust...
The human mind is pure entertainment forever...
The human mind is pure entertainment forever...
2
What if he really didn't murder Nicole and Ron?
2
The people he was accused of victimizing should have gone to jail.
2
I've got no use for OJ and believe he's a murderer, but the sentence he got for the Nevada crimes was excessive and was based on the continued outrage over his prior acquittal. He deserves parole, let's hope he can now settle into well-deserved obscurity.
9
He has a record of beating up his ex-wife and he murdered her as the civil court found. He should be looked at for his lifetime's behavior and not his 'model' actor behavior in prison. The American legal system is so archaic.
His parole instructions should stipulate that he stay away from women as he is a danger to them. He is a WIFE BEATER with a record and he is a murderer, all of which should be considered in the so-called behavior the parole system adjudicators base their decisions on.
He said his only crime (the one he was locked up for) was for 'going after his own property.' That's what he thought too when he killed Nicole and Ron - she was 'his property.'
The court heard from Simpson's family before making their decision--but Nicole's voice has been silenced. Ron Goldman's too. If OJ Simpson's family was allowed speak to his character, then why not Nicole's and Ron's family? Why not any juror who found him guilty of murder in the civil trial?
His parole instructions should stipulate that he stay away from women as he is a danger to them. He is a WIFE BEATER with a record and he is a murderer, all of which should be considered in the so-called behavior the parole system adjudicators base their decisions on.
He said his only crime (the one he was locked up for) was for 'going after his own property.' That's what he thought too when he killed Nicole and Ron - she was 'his property.'
The court heard from Simpson's family before making their decision--but Nicole's voice has been silenced. Ron Goldman's too. If OJ Simpson's family was allowed speak to his character, then why not Nicole's and Ron's family? Why not any juror who found him guilty of murder in the civil trial?
15
Before everyone works themselves into a dither again, just ask yourself how he managed to kill two much younger (and sprier) persons in the manner in which they died yet get no blood on himself. Anyone doing those murders by themselves (if possible) would have been soaked in blood.
Or perhaps all of you teeth gnashers are unaware that the official version has now changed? Check it if you wish, most of you won't - preferring instead just to maintain the intoxicating high of your judicious rage. Anyway, the cops now say Nicole was alone in front of the house, OJ shows up and murders her.. but where's the motive if he wasn't jealous of seeing her with another man? He's gonna go do this right before he has to catch a flight? Like it's some quick errand? Then Ron shows up and he murders him for stumbling on the crimes scene. Again, how (in the mechanical sense) did he do it, step by step, and yet not be drenched in blood?
Or you can go watch "Game of Thrones". It's every bit as realistic as the common interpretation.
Or perhaps all of you teeth gnashers are unaware that the official version has now changed? Check it if you wish, most of you won't - preferring instead just to maintain the intoxicating high of your judicious rage. Anyway, the cops now say Nicole was alone in front of the house, OJ shows up and murders her.. but where's the motive if he wasn't jealous of seeing her with another man? He's gonna go do this right before he has to catch a flight? Like it's some quick errand? Then Ron shows up and he murders him for stumbling on the crimes scene. Again, how (in the mechanical sense) did he do it, step by step, and yet not be drenched in blood?
Or you can go watch "Game of Thrones". It's every bit as realistic as the common interpretation.
12
Pure genius. Your riveting, detailed, and unassailable account has us all convinced of OJ Simpson's innocence. Congratulations on accomplishing in three brief paragraphs what Jeffrey Toobin needed an entire book to do. How come no one has commissioned you to do the same?
2
But who else would have had the motive? His trial was just too much of a farce for anyone to believe that someone else committed those murders.
4
Forensics showed Brown was slashed across her neck from behind. Falling forward, it is possible a "blood soaking" did not happen. If a larger man that me attacked me with a knife, pushed me into a corner, dark, I'm in shock being attacked, it is possible it happened this way. The time line is correct. This was a jealous man, enraged over what had happened earlier with the kids, he drove by, stalked her, saw the dude with the glasses and stuck her, then him, drove back dripping in panic and has been lying about it ever since. I have nothing against OJ as a Bills fan, but this case had its conclusion. It was right. They just didn't prove it conclusively in our court system.
3
I firmly believe both that racism remains rampant in our USA and that O.J. Simpson killed Nicole Simpson and Ron Goldman.
175
You're quite right about rampant racism; e.g. yet another interracial police killing in Minneapolis.
4
He should be paroled for this crime, but everybody knows he is a murderer.
127
How ironic; OJ Simpson will be set free at about the time Trump fires Jeff Sessions, so he can offer OJ the position! How lucky are we?!
10
I would have made a stipulation of parole that he spend the rest of his life working to pay back the $30+ million he was supposed to pay from the civil trial. A pledge by him to do that and a way to monitor that certainly seems reasonable to expect. Oh, and how about spending some more time searching for "the real killer."
29
Sounds like you know him personally and he did you wrong. Why change laws for him...good or bad? So much hate...
And that elusive birth certificate.
We should all respect the justice system. O.J was found not guilty for murdering his wife and the verdict should be respected. This was about a crime he committed 9 years ago and i commend the commisioners for not taking account what happened before then. He is 70 year old man that has served his time peacefully for a crime he should have spent at most 3 years for. Leta respect the justice system.
21
Not guilty in criminal court but civil court found him responsible for the deaths. He legally owes the victims' families millions of dollars. Think if this weren't a famous person the parole board might have insisted he start trying to pay in good faith?
5
Hard to respect the justice system when half the country doesn't believe in it. Look at the SC. Partisan judges rule where it does them the most good, not all of us. Respect? Trigger happy cops who need better training from departments strapped for funds. Parents teach their kids to question the law when applied against them lawfully. The system is a product of us. We are to blame if it isn't working.
I'm White.... and it's hard to ignore how very differently many Black Americans feels about OJ and his relationship with our deeply, deeply flawed criminal justice system.
I nearly weep as I say this, but I'm glad he's been freed.... as I weep for the dead woman he was accused of murdering.
We live in an imperfect world.... God judges, we are qualified only to Love, as we are able,,,,
I nearly weep as I say this, but I'm glad he's been freed.... as I weep for the dead woman he was accused of murdering.
We live in an imperfect world.... God judges, we are qualified only to Love, as we are able,,,,
15
You don't weep for Ron Goldman?
5
How did that parole board regard his record of domestic violence and a civil judgment that he committed two murders as irrelevant? Shame.
10
double jeopardy, sir. Try and jail him for the crime convicted, not something else.
2
The prosecutors in the murder trial of Mr. Simpson made so many amateurish mistakes that dozens of criminal defense books have been written about them. The conviction standard of "reasonable doubt" was then skillfully exploited by Mr. Simpson's defense team. In the civil trial, the extremely competent attorneys for the aggrieved families took great advantage of the "preponderance of the evidence" standard ["If the scales of justice tilt ever so slightly in favor of one side or the other, that is a preponderance of the evidence."] and the civil jury found Mr. Simpson liable. In similar fashion, when police officers are not convicted of murder, their jurisdictions often pay millions of dollars to the aggrieved families knowing that a civil jury will find against the police officer. And may the families of Ron and Nicole find peace.
9
HELLO AMERICA!
We've got much bigger challenges in our country and the world today than OJ!!
Has anyone been paying attention to the "fake news" lately??
Time to move on!! Nothing to see here but an OLD man about to fade into oblivion.
We've got much bigger challenges in our country and the world today than OJ!!
Has anyone been paying attention to the "fake news" lately??
Time to move on!! Nothing to see here but an OLD man about to fade into oblivion.
14
I don't care much about OJ, but seeing how angry white people get about him makes me happy.
It's almost like October 1995 all over again.
It's almost like October 1995 all over again.
8
I'm black, and I have to say that's a pretty stupid comment. Making white people angry is not a worthy goal. It makes you sound like a lot of the losers that supported Trump (willing to sacrifice their country and their own well-being to make liberals angry) or any one of a million internet trolls.
There is, on the other hand, value in showing other people their prejudices, but you must first become aware of your own.
A lot of white people (and others) were quick to assume that OJ was guilty; I think his being a large black man and her being a petite white woman had something to do with that. But the 12 people who saw all of the evidence were apparently not convinced (at least not beyond a reasonable doubt).
Since that time evidence has emerged of other potential suspects. There's been little effort to rule any of them out.
There is, on the other hand, value in showing other people their prejudices, but you must first become aware of your own.
A lot of white people (and others) were quick to assume that OJ was guilty; I think his being a large black man and her being a petite white woman had something to do with that. But the 12 people who saw all of the evidence were apparently not convinced (at least not beyond a reasonable doubt).
Since that time evidence has emerged of other potential suspects. There's been little effort to rule any of them out.
2
Let him live in peace. He paid the price. He sacrificed his everything.......name, fame, Rockingham Estate........except his NFL pension $50K/ month....... .nobody can touch it......
4
The court of public opinion will never set him free. OJ's glory days on the outside are over.
3
What glory days? Even OJ isn't so deluded to believe he can don a Bills or 49ers uniform and rejoin the team for the upcoming season!
1
If this was anyone but O.J. there would no sensational news, no muss, no fuss and no rehashing of the murder trial and its influence in the current case. Therein lies the the greatest problem and the misgivings I have about this conviction and the sentence that O.J. served. When O.J. was first charged with murder I believed he did commit the crime. Now, 20 years later I have great, great mis-givings. I also have great mis-givings about the sentence that O.J. received for this crime. Anyone else would have had a much lighter sentence. The sentence for the crime he was serving time was revenge for the first trial. I must also say that I'm white and not looking to excuse O.J. to go with the consensus of the African American community. I'm offering the view that I now believe O.J. was railroaded. Twice.
I wish O.J. luck and peace without any further intrusion into his life. I hope he makes it and enjoys the rest of his life with his family and friends.
Good luck O.J.
I wish O.J. luck and peace without any further intrusion into his life. I hope he makes it and enjoys the rest of his life with his family and friends.
Good luck O.J.
55
Wow, great analysis.
2
Bravo Jay. Well stated.
2
I tend to agree with you about the second case, but could not disagree more about the first. His guilt was clearly established and he was acquitted because of his race and the suspicions and anger of a majority black jury toward the police.
Pre June 1994 OJ could have been elected U.S. President .
5
Sean:
"Pre June 1994 OJ could have been elected U.S. President."
Post November 2016 OJ could be elected U.S. President.
"Pre June 1994 OJ could have been elected U.S. President."
Post November 2016 OJ could be elected U.S. President.
2
I hope this is the last we see and hear of OJ Simpson.
108
i am sorry i am allowed only 1 recommend for your comment, it deserves many
5
He'll be out on the links with Trump in no time.
America: Where poor anonymous addicts serve lengthy jail sentences and rich famous murderers walk free.
90
Walk free? Have you ever spent so much as ONE day in a holding cell or ONE night in even your local jail?
Didn't think so.
Didn't think so.
Walk free? Nine YEARS in jail is hardly walking free.
Get a grip.
Get a grip.
Perhaps it's healthy for Americans to revisit this intensely controversial cases in the Trump era, as Attorney General Sessions goes into overdrive turning back the clock on social justice.
4
Nine years was a long sentence for the crimes he was convicted of committing, given the flimsy evidence.
It's too short for the crimes for which he was acquitted.
It's too short for the crimes for which he was acquitted.
15
Flimsy? OJ and the thugs documented everything to a T, and the videocamera in the room sealed the deal.
4
Some of us will pay for our crimes by "Man." Most will be punished by our Creator. The people who feel that OJ is the latter need to do some real soul-searching and under that they are not the supreme JUDGE.
1
A travesty of justice.
3
Yet despite all of this, he is still alive. Granted, a turbulent and complicated life, a result of his own decisions, choices and actions. Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman never got to live their full lives or a have a future, because they were taken away from them in such a gruesome and violent manner. Whatever their shortcomings and separate to the media circus and tragic sideshows which unfolded then and now, it is good to remember them and the fact that they were the victims and not some footnotes for OJ Simpson and the spectacle that followed.
10
The four-person panel took into consideration that Mr. Simpson's adult children were not only present at this parole hearing, but also supported and encouraged his parole. If his own children want him home and believe he should be paroled, that's good enough for me. He was tried and found not guilty for the murders of Ms. Simpson and Mr. Goldman. The Nevada parole board granted him parole. Time to move on. Period.
9
At least some good did come out of this. I grew up with domestic violence in the home and the police never did take it seriously. My father belonged in prison and he never spent a night even in the local jail.
But after OJ was acquitted for Ron and Nicole, police departments and prosecutors all over the country began to take out their disgruntlement and dismay at the trial outcome on the law enforcement policies that had allowed OJ to get away with abusing Nicole on multiple occasions.
That was when domestic violence finally became an issue of concern for the general public and for law enforcement, not just for feminist activists.
But after OJ was acquitted for Ron and Nicole, police departments and prosecutors all over the country began to take out their disgruntlement and dismay at the trial outcome on the law enforcement policies that had allowed OJ to get away with abusing Nicole on multiple occasions.
That was when domestic violence finally became an issue of concern for the general public and for law enforcement, not just for feminist activists.
149
Wait, OJ Simpson stated that he read a conflict free life; that is a lie and he should not be granted parole. The evidence showed during his murder trial showed that he abused Nicole Brown Simpson.
The evidence also proved that he killed both Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman. OJ Simpson was acquitted by a jury because the prosecution was incompetent and was out maneuvered by Johnnie Cochran.
The evidence also proved that he killed both Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman. OJ Simpson was acquitted by a jury because the prosecution was incompetent and was out maneuvered by Johnnie Cochran.
25
Premature celebrating. O.J. still has 2 months in a dangerous prison environment.
6
Nothing is going to happen to OJ in prison. His fellow inmates may admire him for getting away with murder as well as being a famous football player.
4
In the US (at least outside of Guantanamo) we are required to serve sentences only for crimes of which we've been convicted. Without this safeguard, none of us would be free from persecution by the state.
Whether he murdered his ex-wife and an innocent by-stander or not, he was not convicted of that crime and cannot be punished for it. A jury of his peers (and my own) determined that the state had not proven its case--I think we have to live with that if we are to remain free (apparently our founders felt the same).
Nine years is a long time for AR, particularly where he was not armed and it was a first offense. At 70, there's little chance of recidivism (unless he runs for president, I suppose). So why should we waste our money housing and feeding him?
Whether he murdered his ex-wife and an innocent by-stander or not, he was not convicted of that crime and cannot be punished for it. A jury of his peers (and my own) determined that the state had not proven its case--I think we have to live with that if we are to remain free (apparently our founders felt the same).
Nine years is a long time for AR, particularly where he was not armed and it was a first offense. At 70, there's little chance of recidivism (unless he runs for president, I suppose). So why should we waste our money housing and feeding him?
16
Why did OJ not tell the Nevada police about the stolen memorabilia and let them retrieve it rather than engaging in self help with thugs? I presume it is because he failed to report these assets to bankruptcy court so he could cheat the Goldman's out of their value in satisfying the judgment they obtained in the wrongful death suit brought for their son's death. Had he told the Nevada police of the stolen memorabilia, it would have been recovered by the police and eventually been turned over to the Goldmans. The man is as honest as Donald Trump.
23
Why should an individual who has committed a brutal murder of two people and armed robbery also, be permitted to spend his next 10 or more years, enjoying a comfortable life, and being a hero to too many people who sympathize with him and don't care about the brutally murdered victims?
14
OJ was never convicted of murder. He is being paroled only on the charges for which he is serving right now. He cannot be held further for what you, I and many others believe he did; that is not how our justice system works. And that is how it should work in a legal system of a democracy.
8
because he was acquitted of those charges, whether you like it or not, and cannot be re-tried nor punished for those charges. fyi, he's not the first wealthy man to get away with murder. not by a long shot.
5
At 70 years old, it's highly unlikely Simpson poses a threat to anyone now.
4
Trump is 71. He poses an enormous threat to everybody.
23
He said "...I basically have spent a conflict-free life."
He should have been denied parole on that statement alone.
He should have been denied parole on that statement alone.
92
He was tried and acquitted on the murders. Apparently the jurors were concerned that detectives, who repeatedly tried to go from his house in Brentwood, to the murder scene and back, it the time period between his verified presence there, we repeatedly unable to do so.
If the acquittal or hung jurys of the police who keep killing unarmed civilians is acceptable, then I fail to see how Mr. Simpson engenders so much disgust to some people. We have the law enforcement system(calling it Justice is clearly unwarranted) that we have, because the public refuses to demand updates. It was a good start, 240 years ago, but it's showing it's age.
If the acquittal or hung jurys of the police who keep killing unarmed civilians is acceptable, then I fail to see how Mr. Simpson engenders so much disgust to some people. We have the law enforcement system(calling it Justice is clearly unwarranted) that we have, because the public refuses to demand updates. It was a good start, 240 years ago, but it's showing it's age.
7
I'm happy for him.
Based on the commentary thus far, people are unable to separate the Las Vegas incident from the prior double homicide. Like it or not, O.J. was acquitted of the criminal charges of murdering Ron Goldman and his ex-wife. Once decided, it is a done deal never to be unearthed. That is how our justice system works. It is not so much that he 'bought' freedom or 'cheated' justice; he hired a team of attorneys who poked holes in a weak and sloppy case presented by Prosecution.
O.J. was severely penalized for his latter crime, unfairly so; given that others who participated were armed with guns while he was not, and that no one else did any real time whatsoever, it is extreme that O.J. had to do nine years for his part. We can infer based on these factors, that the Court found a way to punish O.J. for the earlier crimes he was accused of, but acquitted. In that sense, the system wronged him. As I see it, legally he's got a 1-1 record. Still, I hope he can enjoy what life he still has.
Based on the commentary thus far, people are unable to separate the Las Vegas incident from the prior double homicide. Like it or not, O.J. was acquitted of the criminal charges of murdering Ron Goldman and his ex-wife. Once decided, it is a done deal never to be unearthed. That is how our justice system works. It is not so much that he 'bought' freedom or 'cheated' justice; he hired a team of attorneys who poked holes in a weak and sloppy case presented by Prosecution.
O.J. was severely penalized for his latter crime, unfairly so; given that others who participated were armed with guns while he was not, and that no one else did any real time whatsoever, it is extreme that O.J. had to do nine years for his part. We can infer based on these factors, that the Court found a way to punish O.J. for the earlier crimes he was accused of, but acquitted. In that sense, the system wronged him. As I see it, legally he's got a 1-1 record. Still, I hope he can enjoy what life he still has.
9
We separate the incidents. And we learn in this story he still is lying and claiming never to have been a violent person.
1
What do you know: O.J. is the same age as Trump and they both strike me as being never-wrong, never-sorry, and never-accountable. That makes O.J. Trump's perfect choice for Undersecretary of Golf. O.J. can regale Trump with tales of life in prison, to prepare Trump for when his OTHER "term" begins.
138
How about Secretary of Transportation and jumping over airport waiting room seats? He was great at that.
1
He was never convicted of the killings. I was always confused he could be deemed civilly responsible for them if not found criminally guilty of them. On the merits of his conviction and time served he deserves his chance at parole. I suspect he did the killings but it was never proven.
49
In 1997 he was ordered to pay $25 million dollars in damages in a civil suit to the families of Nicole Simpson and Ronald Goldman.
2
The difference is in standard of proof. Criminal convictions require guilt beyond a reasonable doubt (~99%) whereas civil torts only require guilt beyond a preponderance of the evidence (>50%). So while he was not able to be convicted beyond a reasonable doubt for the murders, another jury felt there was enough proof it was more likely than not that he was responsible. Hence the multimillion dollar civil liability verdict.
Although I believe the judge in the Nevada case piled on the years as payback for Simpson's acquittal in the murders of his wife and innocent bystander, Ron Goldman, he was found civilly responsible because the civil trial was not side railed by accusations of racism, etc. His attorneys convinced 12 people that the entire Los Angeles Police Department had conspired against Simpson on the same day at the same time. It was ludicrous then and it's ludicrous now. His blood evidence was at the crime scene. Period. And, he will never do time for those murders. May he never find peace.
2
Even "a blind man standing by a broken window" can see that theonly reason that Mr. Simpson went to prison was payback for his earlier acquittal.
White people says that Black people should believe in the judiciary system since it is a cornerstone of our democracy. Yet, when a jury returned a not guilty verdict in his murder case, there was a problem with countless individuals accepting the verdict.
On the other hand, when a jury refuses to convict a cop for killing a Black person for an unjustified reason, Black folks suppose to join hands and sing Kumbaya.
But an episode of Law & Order summed it up perfectly. Assistant ADA Paul Robinette (who played a defense attorney) said to Senior ADA Jack McCoy, "It's always about race," at the end of the episode.
White people says that Black people should believe in the judiciary system since it is a cornerstone of our democracy. Yet, when a jury returned a not guilty verdict in his murder case, there was a problem with countless individuals accepting the verdict.
On the other hand, when a jury refuses to convict a cop for killing a Black person for an unjustified reason, Black folks suppose to join hands and sing Kumbaya.
But an episode of Law & Order summed it up perfectly. Assistant ADA Paul Robinette (who played a defense attorney) said to Senior ADA Jack McCoy, "It's always about race," at the end of the episode.
16
I am not sure how to react to this continuing fascination/mania. It's a little disturbing that he continues to get so much attention. He is free, again. But, I don't believe he is, really. I see pain that he is trying to cover up.
3
Convene the Star Chamber and finish the job
I'm disappointed Simpson is going to go free so early. He should be serving the entire sentence. He has no respect for the law or others. Hopefully, he is too old now to break any serious laws anymore, but it's no telling with someone who lives like a thug.
5
Thug. Of course. Thug. How predictable.
3
He lived a life of crime, even as a youth. He continued to live a life as an abuser, a thief, and a bully. He was found responsible for the murders of Nicole S. and Ron Goldman. His tricky defense team allowed him to get away with criminal murder. I call this type of person a thug because of his mentality. He is the one that is predictable, not me.
Finally he can resume his hunt for the real killers
119
The man was acquitted of the murders he was charged with. That case should not be a factor in a parole hearing for a crime he was convicted of. Everyone who is outraged because he ONLY served nine years thinks he should have served much longer because of a crime that theoretically he did NOT commit. He's done the appropriate amount of time and will be paroled. Let the man be. We'll hear from him again soon enough, and then you can all say "I told you so.".
3
O.J., despite his narcissism and hubris, will never be free. He might not be locked behind physical bars anymore, but he will find, after this release, the same invisible bars that society erected against him after he killed his wife and and the unwitting waiter.
Go someplace else, O.J. Florida doesn't want you here.
Go someplace else, O.J. Florida doesn't want you here.
9
Amen to that!
3
I'm not pleased with his release nor his belief he has led a conflict free life. Let's hope he has the sense to lay low the rest of his life.
3
Celebrity status. Soon to be rich. Only in America.
2
Maybe now O.J. can resume his search for "the real killer." [read sarcastically]
5
No worries. Now that OJ is free, he'll have time to resume the hunt for the real killer. Eventually his hunt will wind up in his catching himself and returning to prison.
19
Good one!
OJ Simpson Free! Does it feel like deja Vu all over again. Will the OJ obsession end? The story made the headlines every day for over a year feeding a frenzied nation that couldn't get enough of the trial. Take a look http://wp.me/p2qifI-3qA
1
Could be at the top of a list for Trumps replacement for Sessions. Extensive law enforcement and criminal justice experience and top notch liar.
7
I really, really dislike that grin.
7
If you'd ever been in jail you might understand the smile. I'd call it relief...
3
He's a proven, convicted cold-blooded killer who needs to die in prison.
10
Except that he was acquitted of murder.
3
When was he convicted of killing?
2
I believe OJ Simpson committed two horrific murders probably high on crack cocaine. He deserves to stay in prison for the rest of his life. Even that is not long enough.
8
Boo Hiss
Wanted 10 more years!
Wanted 10 more years!
4
I believe that if O.J gets out there will be people looking to trip him up so that he violates parole.
I just watched the hearing and had I not watched the whole other trial in the 90's I would be thinking that this is a good looking older guy who made a mistake, was never convicted of a crime and did his time. He portrayed himself to be helpful to people, open to others, a good Christian and an all-around good guy with a winning smile.
But..........one may smile and smile and be a villain.
Aye there's the rub.
I just watched the hearing and had I not watched the whole other trial in the 90's I would be thinking that this is a good looking older guy who made a mistake, was never convicted of a crime and did his time. He portrayed himself to be helpful to people, open to others, a good Christian and an all-around good guy with a winning smile.
But..........one may smile and smile and be a villain.
Aye there's the rub.
2
Not a lot of contrition for the crime he was convicted of, saying the legally seized artifacts were 'his' property. Not even saying he felt like that.
1
If one is unhappy in one's marriage, divorce is reasonable...slaughtering the mother of one's children is not.
Keep him in prison. Forever. Did Nicole & Ron get their lives back? I think not.
Keep him in prison. Forever. Did Nicole & Ron get their lives back? I think not.
9
If you think that justice is possible in the american legal system, you are a fool.
6
The law was served.
Moral justice was not.
Moral justice was not.
1
I have such a strange reaction to OJ. Despite all that he did, despite all of his self-serving statements, I find myself sympathetic to him. I cannot think of any other example where my reaction emotionally is so fundamentally at odds (and flawed) with my reaction intellectually. Its very strange, I know he is a murderer and an unrepetant one. He deserves not a scintilla of support, conscious or unconscious. BUT, I grew up with the man that we sort of forget, the incredibly gifted athlete and hero. Flying through the Buffalo snow, getting into the secondary of helpless opponents. The Juice was loose; he was a black man that an ignorant (and systemically rascist) white child could idolize. Muhammad Ali without the threat of Islam; he could also speak and act (OK, not really act, but appear in, in movies that made me laugh and feel good), No-one seemed more likeable or unthreatening, embracing white corporate culture and the entertainment world. We have come so far since then, but still I have something of a child's worshipful view of what he seemed to be. Good luck OJ, don't screw up and don't forget to always try to make up for a debt that you can never repay. You may have the right to freedom, but not the right to innocence or a head held up high.
2
I save all my sympathy for his victims.
15
Being a sports hero and a star does not give one a pass to be constantly beating a wife, and then to commit murder.
He only got off because someone forgot that leather shrinks when wet--so it was inappropriate to have him try on a shrunken glove. And no evidence was introduced the. To show the jury that leather gloves that get drenched and shrink. Period.
He only got off because someone forgot that leather shrinks when wet--so it was inappropriate to have him try on a shrunken glove. And no evidence was introduced the. To show the jury that leather gloves that get drenched and shrink. Period.
1
I completely agree. I was just trying to explain a wierd internal struggle that perhaps others might recognize. I of course never had a chance to develop any kind of connection with either of his two murder victims (of whom I knew nothing about until they were dead), so perhaps that partly explains the disconnect, ie, I have a residual connection with the Hollywood-created star. OJ is revolting; a vacuous, sociopath living a life of golf and cash-generating sports memorabilia events punctuated by moments of murderous rage (and bogus head-in-hands tears/repentance). Still, at some level I founf myself rooting for parole yesterday...knowing that I was watching a character that reminded me of Anthony Perkins in Psycho thinking to himself how innocent/passive he must appear to others: "She wouldn't even harm a fly."
1
He got just what he deserved. The board has ruled that he is to be freed. He should thank his lucky stars for this final outcome.
Well he is and forever will be murderer, at least for me
5
Am I misreading? Your headline says the parole board ruled while your article says they haven't. Please clarify.
I hate to say this, but the title of the documentary was befitting; whether we admit it or not, he's America's child. Our glorification with sports, entertainment, and attractiveness have made this possible.
6
Let's see--first up on O.J.'s schedule will be golf with Trump at Mara Lago.
17
He should run for President!
3
I'm sure he'll find a job in the Trump administration. He's their kind of guy.
9
Yes, and I fully expect him to resume his relentless search for his ex-wife's killer, an obsession, surely, that drove him tirelessly throughout the years until he was, somehow, sidetracked in Vegas. Seems his heroic quest for justice was diverted in a hotel room over some of his memorabilia that was disputed property. Is my absolute cynicism showing?
8
Holy wow, we're only 8 comments in and they're largely about Nicole and Ron. Yes, OJ murdered them, but a jury said he was not guilty and that's the end of it as far as our Constitution is concerned. He's currently in prison for robbery and has served a 9-year sentence and is 70-years old. He's done his time.
This sentence was imposed by a judge who went on to be a reality TV star (for one year). Draw your own conclusions.
This sentence was imposed by a judge who went on to be a reality TV star (for one year). Draw your own conclusions.
5
under the letter and intent of the law he clearly should be paroled; anything else would be a profound miscarriage of justice. he deserves from this point forward a chance at a new life despite his previous history. forget his murder trial he was acquitted by a jury and that's all that matters legally. assuming oj was actually guilty of that crime there's overwhelming evidence that it was an extreme crime of passion and rage. give him a second chance and lose the hate.
4
Yeah cause decapitating the mother of your children is a "crime of passion".
2
I don't get a second chance at an expired parking meter, why should some violent criminal like him get a second chance? The reality is, he did get a second chance after being acquitted of the double murder, what did he do with his second chance, go for another violent crime... Actually he makes a case study for sending a violent person away for good!
3
Now that OJ is going to be free Trump can hire him.
2
Sorry spectacle.
3
O.J. Simpson should never have gone to prison for this ridiculous case. It's another example of prosecutorial overreach against a black man in the United States. Simpson was not armed and never held a weapon of any kind. The situation was about missing collectibles.
As for the case involving the murders of Nicole Brown and Ronald Goldman, for which he was found not guilty, Simpson would never have murdered his ex-wife with his two young children asleep in the condominium.
There was never any motive established for the murders of Brown and Goldman, and Simpson had no motive to murder them.
The Nevada case is linked to the California case because the male government officials involved with the case in Nevada wanted to prove they could put Simpson behind bars. They wanted to do something they believed California didn't do. They wanted to theoretically prove their manhood.
As for the case involving the murders of Nicole Brown and Ronald Goldman, for which he was found not guilty, Simpson would never have murdered his ex-wife with his two young children asleep in the condominium.
There was never any motive established for the murders of Brown and Goldman, and Simpson had no motive to murder them.
The Nevada case is linked to the California case because the male government officials involved with the case in Nevada wanted to prove they could put Simpson behind bars. They wanted to do something they believed California didn't do. They wanted to theoretically prove their manhood.
5
Most people figure he got away with murdering his ex wife and her lover BECAUSE he was black. So putting him in jail for this seemed barely fair. He's out but because he's got a criminal mind he'll violate his parole and be back in.
1
There are other ways of handling hearings like this.
One would have been to ask him straight off if he was still looking for the people who murdered Ron and Nicole.
Another would have been to to tell him that he was getting off today for the robberies, not for the murders he committed, and that everybody with a brain in his head and a conscience in his soul knows it.
That's what I would have preferred.
One would have been to ask him straight off if he was still looking for the people who murdered Ron and Nicole.
Another would have been to to tell him that he was getting off today for the robberies, not for the murders he committed, and that everybody with a brain in his head and a conscience in his soul knows it.
That's what I would have preferred.
1
OJ, a self-delusional narcissist. Now, where have we seen that before? Trump and the Juice, peas in a pod, birds of a feather. Denial, cover-up, lies and, above all, "It's all about them."
3
Just wondering...if OJ gets paroled this year, do you think that would put him in the running for a post in the current administration?
1
He's served his time, been a model prisoner, is connected to his children who want him back,....he should be released to parole in CA.
2
As much as I believe OJ killed his wife and Ron Goldman he should have never been convicted of the Nevada "robbery" to obtain his own personal belongings back. Watching the proceeding this morning I would vote for him to be released. He has served time for the one crime he really didn't commit.
3
It is true that only in America anything is possible. No wonder we're the envy of the world.
3
As they say, if you can fake sincerity in America, you've got it made.
2
If he is the criminal many people believe he is, won't be long before he is back in jail.
2
Everyone really knows that Simpson was not convicted in Nevada for the actions he was on trial for. He was convicted because people were so angry that he had been acquitted in California. In Nevada, a thoroughly biased judge did everything she could to make sure he was convicted and sentenced him vindictively.
Simpson's murder trial in California may have failed to produce justice. But his Nevada trial was an intentional determined effort to do injustice.
Simpson's murder trial in California may have failed to produce justice. But his Nevada trial was an intentional determined effort to do injustice.
3
For some reason I will never comprehend, Simpson's phone records were NOT introduced at the murder trial. If they had been produced, they would have shown that he was summoned to the condo, and by whom: the man who murdered Nicole and Ron Goldman. Ralph L. Seifer, Long Beach, California
1
You take issue with Simpson describing himself as a "good guy" saying that term contrasts sharply with his murder charge and trial. Regardless of whether anyone agrees or disagrees that he is a good guy, Simpson is not in prison for murder and the decision to parole him will not be based on that 1990-something trial as a member of the parole panel said today.
4
It may not be a metaphysical justice, but it's the law.
4
As a human being, I don't have a problem with this brutal, double murderer being put under the jailhouse so that he dies in jail. As a lawyer, I do have a problem with the way the judge in the robbery case obviously sentenced him not for the crime before the court but for a crime of which, whether we like it or not, he had been acquitted. So, yeah, reluctantly I've got to come down on the side of the rule of law -- if he qualifies, parole him.
323
But he was convicted of armed robbery, including two accomplices armed with guns. That's a serious offense!
And that was the second time he'd been apparently involved in a serious crime. No remorse in either case either!
What about the concept of protecting the public against dangerous criminals? THAT'S a basic part of the whole concept of laws!
And at some point, people involved in multiple serious run-ins with the law, especially those who show NO remorse, show that they may be beyond the rehabilitation that one-time "accidental" criminals can achieve.
And that was the second time he'd been apparently involved in a serious crime. No remorse in either case either!
What about the concept of protecting the public against dangerous criminals? THAT'S a basic part of the whole concept of laws!
And at some point, people involved in multiple serious run-ins with the law, especially those who show NO remorse, show that they may be beyond the rehabilitation that one-time "accidental" criminals can achieve.
3
it's your view as lawyer. don't you have a common sense view?
3
You are equivocating, especially as a member of the legal profession. If you admit that he was acquitted of murder, how did you arrive at the conclusion that OJ is a "brutal, double murderer"? In a more perfect world, you'd be guilty of character assassination.
3
"I've led a conflict free life." That's the current thinking of this sociopath. He misses his family- the Browns miss Nicole and the Goldmans miss Ron (I know that can't be considered here, but Simpson's words are offensive and arrogant .) His performance here is a farce.
383
His detestable act was murdering his white wife with whom he had sex -- a lot. Few whites would have cared if he had killed his wife -- a "Paulette Lorraine Jackson" from an "Orangeburg, SC" and the young brother who got in the way. He is our modern day Jack Johnson who paraded his white woman like a red cape before the charging bull. The only lives that mattered in this whole sordid and tragic affair and in the court of public opinion were those of Nicole Brown and the Goldman guy. I wish just a smidgeon of such outrage would be pointed to the unpunished murders of Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, Walter Scott, Philando Castile and on, and on, and on. As we must keep saying, Black Lives Matter -- too. That includes even the greatly flawed OJ Simpson, who has served his time for a crime for which he was convicted. He will be rightly and justly free.
2
The groveling was particularly repulsive. He's still playing to an audience. All his life he has been a manipulator and a conniver: "I'm not black---I'm 'O.J.'"
I can't believe the parole hearing is televised live to the world. A throwback to the days of the sensationalized trial that was breathlessly consumed by the public.
19
"I basically have spent a conflict-free life." I think the Trump Administration has found its next Attorney General.
247
No, based on the current occupant the AG must be a notorious white supremacist. Trump already has his token black man in the person of the addled Ben Carson.
1
Based on the evidence in the documentary, "OJ: Made in America," I am certain that Simpson murdered Nicole Simpson and Ronald Goldman. He was, unfortunately, acquitted of committing those murders. In his subsequent trial for robbery, the judge gave him an excessively long sentence, effectively punishing him for the earlier murders, rather than for the crime he was convicted of committing. So, while I think no one was ever more guilty than OJ, I believe that he should be paroled. Continuing to incarcerate him for a botched robbery is not the right way to punish him for the two murders he committed in 1994.
46
O.J. Simpson is disconcertingly and excruciatingly charismatic and commanding. In the parole board hearing today, the way he deflected blame onto the armed men he brought with him to the Las Vegas crime, without either completely absolving himself of blame nor at the same time taking responsibility for it. was very skillful. It's always all about him when he speaks. You always get the sense that he is bold and daring and likes to win. The word narcissist has been thrown at him from many sources over the years. When the nation was so severely divided between his guilt or innocence over the Los Angeles murders we learned what it is like to live in a society with conflicting 'Alternative Facts' about what is true or not. He has been either adored or despised in the extremes. That's why O.J. Simpson and Donald Trump have always reminded me of one another.
41
Well, based on the comments here, it certainly seems people have a hard time separating this case from the murders he was acquitted of.
One has to hope that the parole board can be more objective.
If we can't accept the results of each case and keep them separate, then that calls into question whether the entire system is viable, given that it's a jury based court system.
One has to hope that the parole board can be more objective.
If we can't accept the results of each case and keep them separate, then that calls into question whether the entire system is viable, given that it's a jury based court system.
102
he LIED in his own testimony about himself...the board members were star struck
And people seem to have a hard time separating his celebrity from his sociopathy
The problem is not separating each case but that so many people not recognizing his self absorbed, sociopathic ways instead of worshipping his so called celebrity
“I basically have spent a conflict-free life.”
OJ Simpson 20 July 2017.
Is this a bad joke?
-Acquitted of 2 murders that everyone except the incompetent jury knew he committed, and
-an armed robbery to regain his former property that he previously auctioned off (meaning it was therefore no longer his property)? And for the sake of argument, if that were in dispute, he obviously should have settled it in a court of law and not via armed robbery.
It is obvious that he will be released; at least he got 9 years, although he should have gotten life.
OJ Simpson 20 July 2017.
Is this a bad joke?
-Acquitted of 2 murders that everyone except the incompetent jury knew he committed, and
-an armed robbery to regain his former property that he previously auctioned off (meaning it was therefore no longer his property)? And for the sake of argument, if that were in dispute, he obviously should have settled it in a court of law and not via armed robbery.
It is obvious that he will be released; at least he got 9 years, although he should have gotten life.
11
Thank you to the four member Nevada parole board for unanimously granting O.J. Simpson parole. It was the right, fair and just decision.
6
Living in a foreign country, I watched eight plus MONTHS of the O.J. Simpson murder trial in 1995 - 5 days per week. And have watched the entirety - so far - of OJ's parole hearing in Lovelock Prison today. Gobsmacking that Simpson could have avowed in the parole hearing that he had lead "a conflict-free life" after having beaten his wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, bloody for years before he killed her and the young man who was returning her sunglasses from Mezzaluna Restaurant in LA to Nicole's Bundy condo in Brentwood. We all remember the horror of that murder trial and OJ's aquittal when race trumped justice. May Simpson serve his full sentence in Nevada. He'd have plenty of time to take the classes he didn't take at Lovelock - AA, alcohol abuse, domestic violence. O.J. was "sorry" he made a "bad" decision in the Las Vegas case and had to serve 9 years in Lovelock, but that's the only remorse he showed in the hearing just now. No remorse visible for being a wife-beater and a killer.
6
Granted parole. But I think we can all be quite sure that this won't be the last time he sees the inside of a jail. He'll be back. No doubt about it. It's just a matter of time before he's snagged for his first parole violation.
26
The OJ case is a sad testament to how celebrity lawyers, and the media and special interests use of the race card can lead to one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in recent American history.
16
He was convicted for THIS crime - and only this crime - and justly so.
The sentence was what anyone else would have gotten who declined the plea deal and basically dared the DA to convict.
Parole is appropriate, he has served long enough, he has kept his nose clean, and it was a minor crime - parole now is what anyone else would get so it's appropriate that he gets it.
Ron and Nichole have NOTHING to do with this court case. I am quite certain he killed them - DNA evidence is not something I disbelieve - but that is entirely irrelevant to THIS case.
The sentence was what anyone else would have gotten who declined the plea deal and basically dared the DA to convict.
Parole is appropriate, he has served long enough, he has kept his nose clean, and it was a minor crime - parole now is what anyone else would get so it's appropriate that he gets it.
Ron and Nichole have NOTHING to do with this court case. I am quite certain he killed them - DNA evidence is not something I disbelieve - but that is entirely irrelevant to THIS case.
31
While listening to his parole hearing and his responses to their questions, I was struck by how much he sounds like President Trump, in that everything is someone else's fault, and how hard this sentence has been on him, what he has missed out on. Both are walking, talking examples of sociopathic personalities.
90
How completely disconcerting to see this man walk free. He laughs, jokes, grovels in his hearing while his victims are dead or traumatized. No thought or words given to their fate.
Simpson should receive no further attention from the media. He most definitely does not deserve the satisfaction.
Simpson should receive no further attention from the media. He most definitely does not deserve the satisfaction.
241
Did I see a smirk on his face on the photo that links to the video? Shameful, he's getting unjustified preferential treatment.
1
He was acquitted of the murders of his wife and Mr. Goldman. You, however, will not accept that verdict. Your view, and those of others who essentially take the same position, are typical of a lynch-mob.
As for the armed robbery conviction, he served nine years in prison. I really think nine years is sufficient.
One more thing -- I really find the sanctimonious presumption of "law-and-Order" types hypocritical and despicable. The presumption of representing "society" should be a textbook example of the fallacy of reification.
But I do sincerely want Donald Trump to go to prison for the rest of his life.
As for the armed robbery conviction, he served nine years in prison. I really think nine years is sufficient.
One more thing -- I really find the sanctimonious presumption of "law-and-Order" types hypocritical and despicable. The presumption of representing "society" should be a textbook example of the fallacy of reification.
But I do sincerely want Donald Trump to go to prison for the rest of his life.
1
His victims? The people who owned the stuff in the Las Vegas hotel room? Those people are not dead -- and probably not traumatized. If you're talking about the murders in 1994 -- he was acquitted. The jury didn't think he did it. You know better?
The man is a murderer and should remain in jail for the rest of his life.
112
I hope he will NEVER get out of jail for what he did to Nicole Brown and that innocent bystander, Goldman.
58
Things is, a trial held him not guilty. Just because we disagree doesn't mean we can retroactively retry him on the streets.
5
Yes, and Nicole and Ron would like their lives back.
240
Right. But he wasn't convicted of those crimes so let's be intellectually honest. Do the taxpayers in Nevada want to pay to keep him behind bars for the rest of his life for the robbery and kidnapping? Geriatric care behind bars is very expensive.
Further, if they are going to keep control of their prisons, then they have to honor the terms they established. He stayed out of trouble, took the programs they offered and expressed remorse. If they overlook all of that and act out of spite then they would be putting their own jail personnel at even greater risk.
Further, if they are going to keep control of their prisons, then they have to honor the terms they established. He stayed out of trouble, took the programs they offered and expressed remorse. If they overlook all of that and act out of spite then they would be putting their own jail personnel at even greater risk.
1
Ron Goldman was 25 when he was killed. Nicole was 35 and had two children.
I believe it would have been better to have pictures of them in the room.
I believe it would have been better to have pictures of them in the room.
203
You are arguing the wrong case. That one was already tired.
18
Why? He was not in jail for the murders.
8
That is not the reason he is serving time now. You can't do that in a courtroom.
6
From the moment I read about those horrific murders, I thought O.J. Simpson was innocent. I could not fathom how the father of his children could do such a brutal and heinous act. I believed that then and thought I would believe that until the day I died. . . until I watched FX’s “The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story,” It was in the final scenes where Mr. Simpson's former agent told of the conversation he had with Mr. Simpson regarding that night in June coupled with A.C. Cowlings' reaction when describing Nicole Simpson Brown while giving testimony during the civil trial that I realized, "oh my God, he really did it." I was overwhelmed with disbelief and then anger for believing in him. That all said, I firmly believe he beat the rap, but the sentence he received in Vegas was the opposite extreme as well. Judge Jackie Glass added year after year upon each & every act he committed. The look on her face said it all - she was making him pay for not being found guilty of those murders. I don't believe justice was served in either case with Mr. Simpson. He did the minimum 9 years, he is up for parole, and I hope and think he earned the right to be freed. This case should have nothing to do with what happened so many years ago in Brentwood. But it might in the minds of some individuals on the panel. If he does succeed and get paroled, I wonder if he will actually realize that for once in his life, justice will have been served correctly in his favor?
63
It has everything to do with what happened in Brentwood. It confirmed his violent nature.
7
That Nevada judge is a despicable human being. She was determined to do injustice in as extreme a fashion as she could. In the murder trial in California, an unjust result may have occurred. But if it was an unjust result, it was not because the judge and the attorneys were trying to do injustice, they just failed to accomplish it. Whereas that evil Nevada judge was intent upon doing injustice.
2
What happened in Brentwood does have a bearing on whether he should be paroled. He got away with murder because his defense played the race card -- and won. But, the fact is, he killed two people (and also was arrested a few times for beating his wife). He should rot in jail.
1
Wow, OJ at 70 and in prison looks far better than many younger men who are free. Thanks for the live stream.
4
Only in America. And maybe, I don't know, the Philippines.
3
Whether or not he was guilty of the murders for which he was tried and found not-guilty, he was railroaded in this case. The length of sentence for a first conviction, given the facts of the Nevada case, is abhorrent.
147
Precisely Robert. I was always appalled by the judge's extreme sentencing of Mr. Simpson. She was clearing basing her sentencing on the fact that he was found non guilty in the Brown-Goldman murders.
12
Robert: Your comment should be a NYTimes Pick! Very well said indeed.
2
If one reviews the evidence presented in his murder trial, he was guilty of murder. The acquittal was a travesty of justice. He has to live with himself. He knows that he did it.
1
Mr. Simson is 70.
I've often wondered what the public reaction would be if he were to say, regarding his wife and her friend's brutal murder: "I did it. And I beat the system."
I've often wondered what the public reaction would be if he were to say, regarding his wife and her friend's brutal murder: "I did it. And I beat the system."
21
I don't think he ever wants to admit to his children that he killed their mother.
4