President George W. Bush has pardoned ex-Fugees rapper John Forte, who has been serving prison time for smuggling drugs, according to the New York Times. Bush has granted pardons or adjusted prison sentences for 13 other inmates in the final days of his administration.
Forte was sentenced to 14 years in 2001 when he was found guilty of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to distribute. While the singer is known for his hip-hop roots, he was once a backup artist to Carly Simon, who originally posted $250,000 bail for him. Forte has consistently fought his sentence, citing this was his first offense and he was a nonviolent offender.
Bush still has time to consider additional pardons. A White House spokesperson said, “…the President will continue to carefully review clemency requests and make determinations on a case-by-case basis.”