Trump Pardons Former Mets Star Darryl Strawberry for Tax Evasion, Drug Charges
Former Major League Baseball player Darryl Strawberry has received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump for his past legal troubles, which included tax evasion and drug-related charges. The pardon comes as Strawberry embraces his Christian faith and celebrates over a decade of sobriety.
Darryl Strawberry’s Career Highlights
Strawberry had a distinguished career as an outfielder. He was:
- The 1983 National League Rookie of the Year.
- Named an eight-time All-Star, primarily with the New York Mets.
- A key player in the Mets’ 1986 World Series championship.
- A member of Yankees teams that won the World Series in 1996, 1998, and 1999.
Over 17 seasons, Strawberry achieved remarkable statistics, including:
- 335 home runs
- 1,000 RBIs
- 221 stolen bases
Legal Troubles and Rehabilitation
Despite his successful baseball career, Strawberry faced significant challenges. In 1995, he pleaded guilty to a felony charge for failing to report $350,000 in income. This led to:
- A restitution payment exceeding $430,000.
- Subsequent legal issues, including drug charges and probation violations.
- An 11-month prison sentence in Florida, concluding in 2003.
Strawberry has since turned his life around, finding faith and sobriety. He actively engages in ministry and operates a recovery center.
A Message of Gratitude
Strawberry expressed heartfelt gratitude for the pardon on social media, sharing a moment when he received a phone call from President Trump. During this call, Trump praised Strawberry’s baseball accomplishments and informed him of the pardon.
Strawberry stated, “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude, thanking God for setting me free from my past.” He emphasized that this event is about personal redemption rather than politics.
Presidential Pardons and Notable Recipients
Trump’s decision to pardon Strawberry fits into a broader pattern of remarkable pardons that include various public figures and celebrities:
- Former political leaders involved in corruption.
- Individuals with convictions for tax evasion.
- Reality TV stars with criminal backgrounds.
Conclusion
Darryl Strawberry’s story reflects both the struggles and triumphs of life after sports. His journey underscores the power of redemption and the importance of faith in overcoming adversity.
